Evidence of meeting #134 for Status of Women in the 44th Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament’s site, as are the minutes.) The winning word was rights.
A recording is available from Parliament.
Conservative
Andréanne Larouche Bloc Shefford, QC
Thank you, Madam Chair.
Thank you again, Mr. Roebuck and Ms. Harris, for your remarks today.
This is my last round of questions. I'll turn to Ms. Griver.
In your opening remarks, you talked about shelters for women who are victims of violence. You're quite familiar with this matter.
Monday marked the start of the days of activism against gender‑based violence. I was tuning in to a report that focused on the crucial need for access to housing to help a victim break out of the cycle of violence, either as a preventive or reactive measure. If a woman can't find affordable social housing before ending a relationship, she won't be able to regain control of her situation. She needs housing. It's crucial. Housing costs make up the lion's share of any budget.
The lack of housing also undermines the system. Women in emergency shelters are ready to move on to second‑stage housing but must remain in the shelter given the lack of space. As a result, emergency shelters can't provide spaces to other women who may need them. We're currently discussing many issues, but we mustn't forget the need to invest in shelters along with social and community housing in general.
What are your thoughts on this topic?
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Shelby Kramp-Neuman
Unfortunately, you have exhausted your time, Andréanne.
Sorry.
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Shelby Kramp-Neuman
It was only two minutes.
For those witnesses who didn't have an opportunity to answer any questions throughout the course of the meeting, any written responses are encouraged if you would like to send them.
At this point, on behalf of the committee, thank you for joining us today and for your testimony.
This will now conclude our meeting.
I see no questions, so this meeting is adjourned.