NDP Statement on UN Report calling for a National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women

Official Opposition critic for Aboriginal affairs Niki Ashton (Churchill) made the following statement today on the release of a report by the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW):

“This report clearly states that Canada has committed a grave violation of the rights of Indigenous women by failing to promptly and thoroughly investigate the high levels of violence they suffer, including disappearances and murders.

The government must take heed of CEDAW’s thirty eight recommendations for action, including an independent national inquiry into these disappearances and murders, and the development of a comprehensive national plan of action to address all forms of violence against Indigenous women.

More than 1,200 Indigenous women have been murdered or gone missing in Canada – this is a national tragedy that demands a national response. That’s why Tom Mulcair has committed that New Democrats would launch a commission of inquiry within 100 days of forming government.

It is shameful that the Conservatives continue to ignore the overwhelming voices from families, communities, victims, Premiers, human rights groups and international experts asking for action that includes an independent inquiry. This International Women’s Day, we call on the government to change course, help bring families justice and truly work to end violence against Indigenous women.”