Mr. Speaker, five years ago we rose in this House to commemorate the 14 young women who were killed in Montreal and today we must remember these 14 women, their families and friends, and also propose actions for a policy of zero tolerance of violence against women.
Five years ago when we stood in this House and sadly recognized and commemorated the tragedy of the Montreal massacre we all committed ourselves to action.
It is true that awareness of the issue has increased since that time. While there is never any positive aspect to the loss of such young lives, I think we can say that following that massacre there has been much more attention to the issue.
While there has been much condemnation there is still much to do. Far too little has been done. Sadly few steps have been taken which would actually end the violence; some have, but too few. I would say for example that the current social security review that is being undertaken does not address the question of violence but indeed does address the possibility of less funding under the Canada assistance plan for the provinces and territories which fund transition homes and those organizations which help who are under threat of violence.
As well we have seen several recent court judgments which excuse assault and sexual assault on the grounds of intoxication or the use of drugs. This is totally unacceptable. If we are to be committed to zero tolerance in our society, I join with others in this House to demand that government take action on this issue now. I assure you, Mr. Speaker, that this party will support such immediate action.
As we remember those who lost their lives five years ago, we again recommit ourselves to real action. I call on the government to start today with that real action.