Minister congratulates Iris Kirby House on 25 years  

Joan Burke, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women and lead minister for the Violence Prevention Initiative, presented a plaque to the board, staff and volunteers at Iris Kirby House today in recognition of the organization�s 25^th anniversary.  

Iris Kirby House provides refuge to hundreds of women each year who are fleeing abusive situations, offering comfort and a safe place for women and their children to rebuild their lives.  

"Places like Iris Kirby House hold our communities together," said Minister Burke.  "The support offered leads to real change in the lives of the women and children who are seeking refuge."  

The shelter was established when a group of women, including what is now the St. John�s Status of Women Council, recognized a need to provide a safe haven for women living in abusive situations.  The shelter, now a mainstay in St. John�s , is a place for women to connect with each other and regain strength from their shared experiences and determination.  

�Action to end violence must happen at many levels,� said Minister Burke.  �Individuals, communities and governments must take steps to change attitudes, stop the cycle of violence, and give victims of violence the supports they need to live free from abuse.�  

In Budget 2006, government committed $1.25 million annually to support a new six-year action plan on violence prevention - Taking Action Against Violence.  As part of that initiative funding to support work at the community level has been doubled for a total of $675,000.  

The new action plan, which was developed from consultations with community groups, will invest in programs for seniors, persons with disabilities, women, Aboriginal women and children, as well as children and youth, and improve legislation and policy related to violence.

One specific initiative outlined in the new program is an evaluation of the programs and services provided to women and children in crisis � this review will help ensure that women and children are receiving the best support possible while in transition from an abusive situation.  

"I am honoured today to recognize the hard work and dedication of those who created Iris Kirby House and the staff, board and volunteers who work each day to provide a safe haven for women in need," said Minister Burke.  "This is truly a milestone.  Congratulations on your 25th anniversary.�  

Photo #1: (L-R) Mary Dwyer (Iris Kirby House Board Chair), Minister Burke, Daphne MacNeil (Executive Director Iris Kirby House) 

Media contact:

Cathy Whelan, Women�s Policy Office, (709) 729-6225
Jacquelyn Howard, Communications, (709) 729-0048, 689-2624  

2006 06 15                                                        3:10 p.m.