Yesterday (April 10), Airdrie MLA Angela Pitt went toe to toe with Justice Minister and Solicitor General Kathleen Ganley during question period at the Legislature in Edmonton.

Pitt and Ganley had a verbal exchange on the issue of funding for front-line workers that support victims of crime.

PItt asked Minister Ganley how the government would ensure victims of crime have access to support services, when there has been an increase in case files for victims' services but no increase to their budgets. Ganley emphasized the importance of ensuring victims of crime have access to those services across the province, and said the government is looking closely at the current system on the recommendation of the Auditor General. Once they have completed a full analysis of the system, including a gap analysis, they would move forward to resolve the issue.

MLA Pitt then posed a supplemental question, asking if the Minister would direct surplus funds to front-line workers dealing with victims of violent crimes in light of a sharp increase in their case files and an 18 per cent increase in crime in Alberta. Minister Ganley responded that they are working closely with groups that advocate for victims, and said it is important that the surplus funds not just be handed out but that they be used for the needs of victims.

Pitt was then allowed a second supplemental question, asking if Minister Ganley would amend the current regulations to make sure victims in Alberta don't go without support. Ganley responded that, while it was clear to her that the opposition party was not interested in getting evidence to make sure the money is used effectively, the NDP wants to have a gap analysis complete and understand the needs of victims so that the money is used to support their needs.

 

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