This release was issued under a previous government.

The proposed Children First Act would create a Government of Alberta Family Violence Death Review Committee to identify risk factors and patterns, and provide recommendations to the Minister of Human Services. The committee would be a multi-disciplinary panel of experts who would report their findings to the Alberta Government and the public each year.

“Every death due to family violence is an absolute tragedy for Alberta and we need to make sure we aren’t compounding that tragedy by not learning from it,” said Dave Hancock, Minister of Human Services. “We have an unacceptably high rate of family violence in Alberta and we know family violence has long lasting effects for victims, children and families. This new committee will help us see what changes we need to make, what is working and how we can improve the safety of vulnerable Albertans.”

Alberta has the second-highest rate of self-reported spousal violence in the country. Children who witness violence in the home or the loss of a parent due to family violence can be profoundly affected. By looking at family violence deaths, the review committee would recommend ways to reduce family violence and protect children from being exposed to violence.

The need to review homicides and suicides related to intimate partner violence was identified in consultation with community and government partners in the justice and victims services sectors. Also, during discussions to develop the Social Policy Framework, Albertans stated they wanted a new approach to addressing social issues that focus more on prevention and awareness.

The Children First Act would also amend the Protection Against Family Violence Act to recognize protection orders issued from other Canadian jurisdictions. Individuals would no longer need to go back to court to file for another protection order when they come to Alberta. This amendment will help continue to protect parents and children from family violence.

“Family violence is one of the most prevalent and tragic issues that we are dealing with as a community and as a province,” says Rod Knecht, President of the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police. “A committee would provide important information that we need to reduce the number of violent incidents and senseless loss of life.”  

The Children First Act is an important first step in transformational change in how government supports the health, safety and success of Alberta’s children. By breaking down barriers and encouraging collaboration in identifying and meeting the needs of young people, government, its partners, communities and families will help create positive outcomes for children.

Our government was elected to keep building Alberta, to live within its means and to fight to open new markets for Alberta’s resources. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.

Media inquiries may be directed to:
Craig Loewen
Press Secretary
Human Services
Phone 780-643-6210
[email protected]  
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To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.