May 13, 2025
MLA Iain Rankin will table a motion at today’s Health Committee calling for the creation of a provincial roundtable to address the ongoing epidemic of gender-based violence in Nova Scotia.
The motion follows conversations with advocates, survivors, and support organizations across the province, many of whom will appear before the committee today. If adopted, the motion would see the Health Committee write to the Premier’s Office to request the formation of a provincial roundtable that brings together a wide range of perspectives, including survivors, non-profit organizations, law enforcement, key government departments, and elected officials.
“We’re hearing directly from those on the front lines who have said that more coordination and leadership is needed,” said Rankin. “This motion is about honouring those voices and responding to the crisis with compassion and action.”
Since October 2024, there have been eight femicides in Nova Scotia, alongside countless acts of violence against women. The motion recognizes that gender-based violence has been formally recognized as an epidemic and highlights Recommendation 14 of the Mass Casualty Commission, which calls for a society-wide mobilization to confront the issue.
“Every life lost is a call to do better. This roundtable would give us the structure to listen, to learn, and to act in a meaningful way,” said Rankin. “I hope all parties will support this step toward a more coordinated and compassionate response to gender-based violence in our province.”