In the motion, Madam Chair, it says "... a plan ... to curtail the trafficking of women". I would prefer that it say "... a plan ... to curtail the trafficking of women and children ".
I am aware, Madam Chair, that the Department of Justice and the Department of Public Safety are currently examining this problem. I am also concerned because, when we examine only the problem, we are not thinking about the cases of the people who are affected by it. The people who are affected by this problem are children and women who may have to return to their country of origin and be caught up in the same vicious circle.
It is therefore important that this kind of motion be brought to the government. We must also ensure that structures are put in place by the Department of Citizenship and Immigration, and that changes are made to the legislation that governs that department, to help women and children who are victims of violence or the sex trade.
The legislation governing the Department of Health also has to be amended. At present, a person can be provided with care under the department's aegis for a certain number of days. I do not believe that it is sufficient. If we really want to cover this entire problem, we have to ensure that women and children who are victims of violence or the sex trade are not victimized a second time.
This plan must therefore be complete and comprehensive. It has to study this problem as a whole, and not just from the standpoint of justice or public safety. It also has to show compassion for the victims.