Liberal Budget Bypasses Human Sex Trafficking
QUEEN’S PARK – Ontario PC Critic for Women’s Issues, Laurie Scott, flagged that yesterday’s provincial budget did nothing more to address human sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, despite survivor and advocate calls for action.
“This government seems to think that taking the longer approach with time is the best solution. Tell that to the victims trapped in this heinous world today, tomorrow, the next day and the day after that,” stated Scott.
It has been almost a year since Scott’s motion passed unanimously in the Legislature, calling on the government to create a multi-jurisdictional and coordinated taskforce of law enforcement agencies, Crown prosecutors, judges, victims’ services and frontline agencies. Additionally, the Select Committee on Sexual Violence and Harassment – which endorsed Scott’s motion – has had its final report out since December.
“Human sex trafficking doesn’t need to be treated like an omnibus bill. There are immediate steps that can be taken now,” reminded Scott. “There are actions in the government’s power that they seem to ignore.”
Scott did note the budget re-announced the right decision to address violence against Indigenous women, something that is long overdue.