Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to address the House on this important day. I rise on behalf of all New Democrats on this national day of remembrance and action on violence against women, December 6.
Today is the anniversary of the 1989 Montreal massacre at l'École Polytechnique. Fourteen women died on this day, a great tragedy. Today we reflect on, remember, mourn and call for further action to address and prevent violence against women.
On this day I also remember the work of my former colleague, a New Democratic member of Parliament from British Columbia, Dawn Black, whose efforts during the previous Parliament led to the establishment of this national day of remembrance and action. I think of her dedication to the House and to the issue of violence against women when I think of the motion today.
I also remember and sympathize with the families of the 14 women who died simply because they were women. Those families live with the effects of this great tragedy in ways many of us will never fully understand.
Violence cannot be condoned, but it cannot be treated only with punishment. We must understand violence and treat the causes as well as the criminals. A plan of action must be recognized every day of the year, in every part of the country and in all our actions. We must deal with the economic and social roots of the circumstances which lead to violence against women. We must deal with economic and social legislation in the House. We have to keep in mind the possible human consequences of that legislation every day of our lives. We are confronted daily with decisions we can make in the House which may affect people in ways which could lead to violence and we must address those matters.
Today is the day on which we reflect on, remember and mourn that which has been done to women. We must address the need to work further on this important issue. I trust all members of the House will heed the call for action on this important day.
