And just like that, October has come to an end. Let’s recap some advocacy updates from the past two weeks and focus on what we expect to see coming out of Parliament in the near future.
FEWO – Briefing on Trauma-Informed Practice and GBV Report
The Standing Committee on the Status of Women (FEWO) held a meeting on October 20th, which included a briefing on trauma-informed practices and reviewed its draft report on gender-based violence.
Saskatchewan – GBV Funding Announced:
The Government of Saskatchewan has announced $5.2 million in new funding to help address gender-based violence across the province. This investment is part of Saskatchewan’s ongoing commitment under the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. Funds will support prevention programs, survivor services, and Indigenous-led initiatives focused on culturally relevant approaches.
Liberals announce Bail Reform Framework
The federal government has introduced Bill C-14: The Bail and Sentencing Reform Act, proposing significant amendments to the Criminal Code. The bill expands reverse-onus bail for repeat violent offenders, including those charged with human trafficking and sexual assault, and allows consecutive sentencing for serious repeat offences. It also limits conditional sentences for sexual offences and requires judges to consider an accused’s history of violence and outstanding charges when granting bail.
The Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights – Bail Reform
The Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights met last week to examine bail reform, sentencing practices, and the handling of repeat violent offenders. Witnesses highlighted concerns about public safety, the need for stronger accountability for repeat offenders, and the impact of bail conditions on Indigenous and marginalized populations.
Hotel Sting
A coordinated OPP operation in Windsor resulted in multiple arrests of men attempting to purchase sex from an undercover officer posing as a teenage girl. The sting, led by the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, was part of a province-wide effort to deter the exploitation of minors and disrupt trafficking networks operating through online platforms and local hotels.
Ontario invests in Peterborough Police Service
The Ontario government announced new funding for the Peterborough Police Service to strengthen its capacity to address violent and organized crime, including human trafficking. This investment is part of a $91 million Community Safety & Policing Grant Program. The $500,000 allocation supports staff training, surveillance tools, and victim-centered initiatives.
Holly Wood
Research & Advocacy Coordinator