Statement by the Prime Minister

December 6, 1989 is a day that will forever be etched on the hearts and memories of Canadians. A day when 14 young women had their lives taken in a senseless act of violence at l'École polytechnique de Montréal. A day when 14 families were shattered.

And a date – December 6 – that since 1991 has been designated as Canada's National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. A time, every year, when Canadians take time to pause, reflect and rededicate themselves - in the memory of the 14 who died - to the challenge of ending violence against all women.

Protecting women from violence has been one of our government's top priorities. We have passed one of the toughest gun control laws in the world; eliminated self-induced intoxication as a defence for violent crimes; strengthened the effectiveness of peace bonds to keep abusers away from women and children; and toughened the criminal code to deal with high risk offenders. In 1999, we have passed three key laws, improving the rights of victims of violence, promoting the personal security of women and children, and making the criminal justice system more responsive to the needs of women who experience violence.

The dawn of a new millennium, with all its attendant hope and goodwill, reminds us that we must remain steadfast in fulfilling our vision of a society in which every Canadian can be safe, regardless of gender. As we mark the 10th anniversary of a day that as a nation, we shall never forget, let us remember that we all share in the responsibility of ending violence, for once and for all.