Treaty 1 Territory, Homeland of the Red River Métis, Winnipeg, MB –
Cindy Lamoureux, Interim Leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party and MLA for Tyndall Park says she is pleased to see parties work collaboratively together to have Bill 209 pass Second Reading at the Manitoba Legislature today.
Joined by members of the Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters, Ikwe-Widdjiitiwin Indigenous Crisis Shelter, the Brandon Women’s Resource Shelter, and Rotary Club in the legislature galleries, Bill 209 also known as Keira’s Law passed Second Reading with unanimous consent this morning.
Bill 209 follows in the footsteps of the Government of Canada, and the Government of Ontario who have also enacted legislation to expand education topics and requirements for judges and judicial justices of the peace in the areas of intimate partner violence and coercive control.
“Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters appreciates all the work that went into the passing of Bill 209, Keira’s Law. It is a crucial step towards supporting survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, family violence, and ending violence against women,” said Tsungai Muvingi. “We are excited and optimistic for the impact that Bill 209, Keira’s Law will have in Manitoba.”
“For the past decade, Manitoba has had some of the highest rates of intimate partner violence across Canada and far too often, children are caught in the midst of violence in the family. This legislation will better protect everyone involved.” Lamoureux says.
Now that Bill 209 has passed second reading, it is up to the government to refer the bill to a Committee of the House. At this stage, the public have an opportunity to provide direct input on the legislation through oral presentation or a written submission.
“I am pleased to see that all members in the House supported Bill 209 today, to better protect survivors of Intimate Partner Violence,” Lamoureux said. “To Keira Kagan – this legislation is in tribute to you”.