Jennifer Blatherwick, parliamentary secretary for gender equity, has released the following statement in response to Women and Gender Equality Canada’s announcement of funding to advance the next phase of the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence:

“British Columbia welcomes the federal government’s renewed investment of $607.4 million over four years for provinces and territories to build on progress under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence.

“Gender-based violence continues to affect people in every community throughout B.C., including in our homes, workplaces, schools and public spaces. Its impacts are far-reaching and devastating for survivors, families and communities.

“Recognizing these impacts, the Province of British Columbia invests more than $60 million annually to support 475 victim services and violence-against-women programs throughout B.C. But we know more is needed. Long-term, sustained investments across all levels of government are critical to preventing violence and ensuring survivors have access to the supports they need.

“Federal funding through the National Action Plan bilateral agreements is helping advance Safe and Supported: B.C.’s Gender-Based Violence Action Plan, and is strengthening access to effective, trauma-informed services throughout the province.

“Over the past three years, we’ve made significant progress by expanding access to counselling, enhancing domestic-violence intervention programs, supporting Indigenous-led healing and safety initiatives, increasing women’s shelter and transition housing spaces, and strengthening access to legal aid and family law supports for survivors and families. I look forward to working with our partners to build on this progress.

“I am also pleased to see the federal government’s commitment to renewing funding for crisis hotlines, which provide vital, and often life-saving, assistance to people experiencing violence.

“Timely access to trauma-informed services is essential, particularly during times of crisis. Continued investment in these services will help ensure people in British Columbia can get help when and where they need it.

“Gender-based violence has no place in our communities. British Columbia remains committed to working alongside Indigenous partners, service providers, communities and all levels of government to prevent violence, support survivors and build a province where everyone can live in safety and dignity.”