Welcome to meeting number 123 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women.
I would like to remind all members of the following points. Please wait until I recognize you by name prior to speaking. This is a reminder that all comments should be addressed through the chair.
Thank you all for your co-operation.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on Monday, November 27, 2023, the committee is continuing its study of coercive behaviour.
Before we welcome our witnesses, I would to provide a trigger warning. We will be discussing experiences related to violence and coercive control. This may be triggering to viewers with similar experiences. If you feel distressed or need help, please advise the clerk.
For all witnesses and for members of Parliament, it is important to recognize that these are difficult discussions, so let’s try to be compassionate in our conversations.
At this point, I would like to welcome our witnesses.
For today's panel, by video conference, we have two witnesses appearing anonymously. As well, in the room, from Humane Canada, we have Kerri Thomson, manager, justice and legislative affairs. In addition, by video conference, we have Kamal Dhillon, author and speaker.
At this point, I would like to begin with Kerri Thomson, for up to five minutes.