November 17, 1998
(Executive Council)
(Justice)

Release of two publications on violence

Julie Bettney, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, and Chris Decker, Minister of Justice, today announced the release of two publications on violence. Calling Crime a Crime and Assaulted, Threatened or Harassed? were produced by the Justice Committee of the Provincial Strategy Against Violence and the Victim Services Branch of the Department of Justice.

Calling Crime a Crime provides information on the dynamics of violence, the criminal system and services for victims of violence. Assaulted, Threatened, or Harassed? deals with assault, threats and harassment, the response of the justice system, as well as a brief description and assessment of the peace bond process.

"The publications were developed for use in shelters, courts and agencies which support victims of violence," said Minister Bettney. "The publications will provide information on the dynamics of violence and the options victims have within the justice system."

Minister Decker indicated that these efforts show the Department of Justice recognizes crime victims and those working with them deserve assistance in understanding and negotiating the criminal justice process. "We hope these resources will help make the process more accessible and accountable to the public," he said.

The publications will be distributed to government department offices and various community organizations around the province who are working to address the problems of violence and to help individuals who are victims of violence.

For more information contact:

Beth Lacey
Provincial Coordinator
Strategy Against Violence
(709) 729-2987

Jackie Kavanagh
Victim's Services
Department of Justice
(709) 729-0900

1998 11 17                             12:15 p.m.