February 27, 2025
The Nova Scotia Liberals are taking action to address the intimate partner and gender-based violence epidemic by introducing three critical pieces of legislation today.
Interim Leader Derek Mombourquette will table the Intimate Partner Violence Prevention Act to establish a dedicated fund to provide core funding to organizations that work to prevent IPV and support victims. These groups play a critical role in frontline services and sustained funding will allow them to continue their vital work.
“Recognizing intimate partner violence as an epidemic was an important step, but now we need action,” said Mombourquette. “In our discussions with frontline organizations across the province, we’ve heard how reliable funding would transform their ability to support victims and ensure they have the resources they need to keep Nova Scotians safe.”
House Leader Iain Rankin will table the Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit Increase Act to expand eligibility for the program to help more low-income Nova Scotians struggling with rent receive support. IPV advocacy groups have identified housing insecurity as a major barrier preventing women from leaving dangerous situations.
Rankin will also table amendments to the Costs and Fees Act to ensure that witnesses in court cases are reimbursed for travel expenses at the provincial rate in both directions and receive a per diem of $100 per day. This will remove financial barriers that could discourage victims and other witnesses from participating in the justice system.
“At least seven lives have been lost to intimate partner violence in just a matter of months. Nova Scotia has the highest rates of IPV in the country, and we need to make sure our institutions work for everyone to break the cycle,” said Rankin. “By expanding the housing benefit and ensuring people have the support they need, we are helping victims speak out and get out of dangerous situations. This is about creating real pathways to safety and justice for those who need it most.”