Statement by the Prime Minister

Each December 6 since 1989, Canadians remember with great sadness the tragic deaths of 14 young women, who lost their lives in a senseless act of violence. In 1991, Canada's National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women was established. As a result, December 6 also reminds Canadians that while we must grieve our losses, we must also act to end violence against women. True to our nature, Canadians are taking action and we are succeeding in pushing back the shadow of violence that darkens – and ends – too many women's lives.

The challenge of ending the violence is a work of partnership – partnership at all levels of society, at all levels of government. I am pleased that at the federal level, as of December 1, we have implemented the new Firearms Act, which will provide greater safety to Canadians. And I am very proud of the demonstration of solidarity by the Federal-Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Status of Women. Working together in partnership, they have created a declaration that states our commitment to take concerted, comprehensive action to end gender-based violence.

The Iqaluit Declaration embodies the heartfelt conviction of governments across Canada that the violence must end. It reflects our shared vision that someday, no Canadian in this vast, magnificent land will have to live in fear of violence. To make that vision a reality, we must act together in a sustained and coordinated effort across all sectors. I encourage Canadians everywhere to support the work to end violence against women and to join in creating positive change. Only by refusing to tolerate violence, can we truly honour the memories of the fourteen young women who died in 1989.

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