SCOTT MEETS WITH JOY SMITH FOUNDATION IN WINNIPEG

WINNIPEG, MB – Ontario PC Critic for Women’s Issues, MPP Laurie Scott visited Winnipeg to learn from experts in the fight against human sex trafficking.

“The pioneering work of my friend Joy Smith is well regarded across the country,” said Scott. “I was pleased to have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of the Joy Smith Foundation, national stakeholders such as Cybertip.ca, and local organizations – and to bring their best practices back with me to Ontario.”

Throughout the day, MPP Scott heard that the problem of human sex trafficking is far broader and deeper than many people realize. Those involved in combating this scourge emphasized the importance of targeted resources from the provincial government to protect victims, as well as the critical importance of clear legal safeguards.

“Human sex trafficking victims themselves have informed our approach in Manitoba, and that approach involved not only increased resources, but also specific legal changes, such as those contained in MPP Scott’s Bill 158, the Saving the Girl Next Door Act,” said Joy Smith.

“During my visit, it was encouraging to learn more about how the Child Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking Act – which became Law in Manitoba in 2012 – has helped vulnerable individuals and communities. The Saving the Girl Next Door Act seeks to bring these legal protections to Ontario,” Scott added.

“I once again call on the Wynne government to demonstrate an evidence-based approach to this serious issue by bringing the Saving the Girl Next Door Actforward for a final vote,” concluded Scott.