Mr. Speaker, violence against women and children is recognized nationally and internationally as a significant barrier to gender equality and to women's human rights and fundamental freedoms. I wish today to recognize the dedication of those serving in Canada's shelters for women and children.
In 2017, Alberta shelters provided refuge and support for over 10,000 women and children fleeing violence. A key barrier to effective action against domestic violence has been failed coordination and consistent responses by community, police, and government.
I was honoured to attend the launch of a positive new initiative for the Alberta Council of Women's Shelters, targeting this very problem. The program, jointly financed by federal and provincial governments, brings together RCMP, police, shelters, government agencies, and communities to offer coherent, coordinated, longer-term support. This evidence-based program is women-centred, addresses gender inequalities, holds perpetrators accountable, enables better collaboration, ensures healing for violence related to trauma, and better serves the diversities of communities needing support and escape from violence.
I invite all MPs to join me in saluting Shelters Canada—