NR – Select Committee on Sexual Violence and Harassment – Interim Report

The Select Committee on Sexual Violence and Harassment Releases Interim Report

Today, the Select Committee on Sexual Violence and Harassment released its interim report which reflects the important contributions made by all presenters. This committee was formed to engage directly with women and men across Ontario whose experience or expertise may help to address the harassment and violence that is far too prevalent in our society.

Since February, the Select Committee has held public hearings across the province and heard from a diverse group of voices. We would like to thank all of those who took time to appear before the Committee on this extremely important subject. Their experiences, input and advice will be invaluable as the Select Committee works towards its final report and recommendations.

The final report and its recommendations will work in conjunction with Ontario’s new action plan, It’s Never Okay: An Action Plan to Stop Sexual Violence and Harassment. Led by Premier Kathleen Wynne and the Minister Responsible for Women’s Issues, Tracy MacCharles this plan is helping to change attitudes, improve supports for survivors, and make workplaces and campuses safer and more responsive to complaints about sexual violence and harassment.

A copy of the Select Committee’s interim report is now available at: http://www.ontla.on.ca/committee-proceedings/committee-reports/files_html/SCSVH%20INTERIM%20EN.htm

The Select Committee will continue to hold hearings when the Legislature returns and present a final report to the House in December of 2015.

QUOTE:

“The Select Committee on Sexual Violence and Harassment has received significant input from presenters from across Ontario. I am confident that the Committee’s work will produce a final report that reflects victims’ experiences, make recommendations about how to shift social norms, and propose reforms that ensure those who have experienced sexual assault and harassment feel safe coming forward.”
– Harinder Malhi, MPP for Brampton-Springdale