Territories Working Together on Family Violence Issues

Edmonton (September 29, 2003) The three territories are working together on a new action group whose goal is to develop strategies to deal with family violence in Inuit and other aboriginal communities.

With the support of all jurisdictions, the working group was formed at the 22nd annual federal/provincial/territorial meeting of Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women, held in Edmonton on Sept. 24-26, 2003. The Northwest Territories and Canada will take a lead role in steering the working group.

“We are pleased to be the lead with Canada on this working group. The elimination of family violence must be a priority for all jurisdictions. Its devastating effects on our families, communities and society must end,” said Northwest Territories Premier Stephen Kakfwi.

“The goal of this working group is in keeping with our government’s overall goal to improve the quality of life for Inuit women in Nunavut,” said Peter Kilabuk, Nunavut’s Minister Responsible for the Status of Women.

“We are pleased to be taking constructive action to address this very critical issue,” Yukon Premier Dennis Fentie said.

The working group, which will examine the issue of violence against women, with a particular focus on aboriginal women, will report on its progress by Dec. 6, 2003.

Contacts:

Peter Carr
Communications Advisor
Cabinet Office
(867) 667-8688
peter.carr@gov.yk.ca

Marcelle Dubé
Communications Coordinator
Women’s Directorate
(867) 667-8269
marcelle.dube@gov.yk.ca

Nino Wischnewski
Government of Nunavut Communications
(867) 975-6001

Drew Williams
Government of Northwest Territories
(867) 669-2304