The B.C. government is continuing its preparation for the release of the final report of the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry.

Ensuring that families of the missing and murdered women are provided with information and support related to the announcement, the Ministry of Justice has now contacted family members by telephone, mail or email to provide them with the date and time of the release, and how they can access the report prior to the media availability of commissioner Wally Oppal and Justice Minister and Attorney General Shirley Bond.

Acknowledging the significant impact the release of the report will have on many individuals, families have also been provided with the contact information for victim support workers who can provide assistance or connect them with services in their local community. Services are available to family members before, during and after the release of the report. VictimLink BC, a toll-free, 24/7 information and support line is also available at 1 800 563-0808. The Minister of Justice has asked ministry staff to re-double their efforts to reach out to families to ensure that, to the greatest extent possible, those affected are provided with this information.

Family members, regardless of where they live, have been advised about how to access the report online beginning at 9 a.m., prior to commissioner Oppal making public statements on the report later in the day. In addition, the Ministry of Justice will provide assistance to those family members who were represented by counsel at the inquiry, who attended the inquiry hearings, and who wish to be in Vancouver. They have been asked to contact the ministry. This is to ensure they have the information and the support they need on the day of the release.

On Dec. 17, a reading room will be set aside for family members who are able to attend in person. Victim services supports will also be available at that location. The room will open at 9 a.m. A reading room will also be open at noon for parties who had standing at the inquiry. A lock up will be available for media. Additional details regarding location and times for media participation will be provided on Friday, Dec. 14.

Out of consideration for the families and to provide sufficient time for families and other affected parties to review the report, the ministry will ask media to not begin reporting until 1 p.m. when the media briefing begins.

Media Contact:

James Beresford
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Justice
250 387-8119