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NLIS 4
February 25, 2005
(Executive Council)
Ministers to hear from key stakeholders on Violence
Prevention Initiative
Representatives of advocacy groups, community and
women�s organizations will gather in St. John�s Sunday, February 27 and Monday,
February 28 to discuss the future direction and priorities for the Violence
Prevention Initiative (VPI). The consultation session is being led by the
Women�s Policy Office with participation of ministers of the VPI ministerial
committee and senior officials from partner departments.
"The Violence Prevention Initiative has made a tremendous impact on raising
awareness of violence in our communities," said Minister Joan Burke, minister
responsible for the Status of Women and chair of the committee of ministers
which leads the Violence Prevention Initiative. All citizens, including women,
children and the elderly, have the right to live in peaceful and safe
communities."
The VPI is the second phase of a ten-year initiative on violence prevention. It
is based on a collaborative, inter-departmental, community model which provides
funding to six regional coordinating committees and two provincial
organizations.
"The government of Newfoundland and Labrador is extremely committed to ending
violence in our province. This is not an easy task and will require the full
support and participation of our community and government partners. I am looking
forward to meeting with so many who have been on the front-lines of violence
prevention work, hear their ideas, seek their advice and draw on their
experience as we work together toward the next phase of violence prevention
work," said the minister.
Minister Burke has had informal discussions and correspondence with stakeholders
concerning the future of the VPI. "Based on my background in social work and
corrections, I understand the impacts of violence and the need for initiatives
that are dedicated to prevention work. Our full day together is a chance for us
to roll up our sleeves and develop solid recommendations on violence prevention.
With the support and cooperation of those dedicated to this issue, we can build
on the excellent work that has been done to date."
Media contact: Jacquelyn Howard, Communications, (709) 729-4062 or 689-2624
2005 02 25
1:15 p.m.
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