Newfoundland women outraged with actions of province over safety bill

For the second time in as many weeks, women in this province are feeling left out and angered by the actions of the provincial government.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Feminist Coalition feel Justice Minister Tom Osborne, is bringing in legislation that will place women and families at risk of homelessness, poverty and violence.

The Legislation, Bill 9, Safer Communities and Neighborhoods, has now passed first reading in the House of Assembly despite advice to the contrary from a Provincial Committee of the Violence Prevention Initiative, the Provincial Advisory Council on the Status of Women and anti-violence coalitions.

"This legislation will place women and children at risk and has far too much potential to do harm," said coalition member Joyce Hancock (pictured). "The issue of citizens feeling unsafe in our homes needs a Justice response but not this one."

Furthermore the Justice department's consultation process was a complete farce and given that it only started after the (Bill 9) had already been introduced into the house is insulting to grassroots women's organizations who take the time to advise government and advocate on behalf of women and communities."

LINK: The Western Star