Right now, I'm torn about whether I want Bill S‑205 to pass. Honestly, it must pass.
Unfortunately, the year started badly for me. I learned through the media that the first femicide of the year in Quebec took place in my area, in Granby. In front of the media, I pledged to make every effort to help this committee take concrete steps to ensure that not one more femicide occurs.
I would like Bill S‑205 to pass. Everyone has questions. I would like us to try to move ahead with the consideration of this crucial and significant bill.
I'm trying to form an opinion on amendment G‑5. We obviously need to take steps to get this bill passed.
I also met with groups of women, just last week in Chicoutimi, who spoke about the need for access to a continuum of services, a term that often comes up. They also spoke about the need for society as a whole to take this issue seriously, both on a legal basis and as a public health, mental health and support issue. Our entire system must work together with community groups, which are doing an outstanding job.
In terms of amendment G‑5, I'm just trying to get a feel for it. I'm trying to understand what the legal experts are saying. Is this amendment sound? Does it make the bill less strict?
I'm having trouble forming an opinion on this amendment. I'll continue to follow and take part in the discussions. All I want is for Bill S‑205 to pass.
I understand that amendments have been moved. Ultimately, we must keep in mind that this bill is a vital part of our fight to end the femicide epidemic, which continues to claim too many victims across Quebec and Canada.