Mr. Speaker, on this day, December 6, we mark and remember the anniversary of the 14 young women who were brutally murdered at Montreal's École Polytechnique.
I want to recognize the leadership of Dawn Black, former NDP member of Parliament, who brought forward this day as a National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Thirteen years later we remember the horror of what took place and the ongoing suffering and grief of the families.
The case of the 66 missing women in Vancouver's downtown east side, 15 of whom are known to be murdered, is also evidence that violence against women, particularly poor and aboriginal women, is increasing.
Governments have failed to act on every level. The federal government must bear responsibility as women suffer ongoing cutbacks in services. The government must demonstrate that ending violence against women is truly a priority. It must be reflected in the laws, programs, services and community supports so that women can live without the fear and abuse of violence. Nothing less will do.