Welcome to the 39th meeting of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women.
Pursuant to the Order of Reference of Wednesday, October 1, 2014, and the motion adopted by the committee on Thursday, October 30, 2014, the committee is resuming its study on promising practices to prevent violence against women.
It must be said that it is quite fitting that we are meeting to discuss promising practices to prevent violence against women because this week we are observing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, which is held on December 6 every year. I just wanted to mention that.
I would also like to thank our witnesses who are taking part in this very important study. I would also like to thank the committee members for ensuring that we can conduct this very important study.
This morning, I would like to welcome, from the DisAbled Women's Network of Canada, Bonnie L. Brayton, the national executive director, and Carmela Hutchison, the president.
We also have with us Alia Hogben, the executive director of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women.
Joining us by video conference from Calgary, Alberta, is Rekha Gadhia, manager of the Family Services Department, and Beba Svigir, chief executive officer, of the Calgary Immigrant Women's Association.
Each group of witnesses will have 10 minutes. The presentations will be followed by a question and answer period.
I would like to begin with Carmela Hutchison.
You have 10 minutes.