New Brunswick’s legislature unanimously passed a motion Thursday declaring intimate partner violence an epidemic and systemic crisis, following advocacy from Canada’s largest private-sector union.
The declaration came two days after discussions between Women’s Equality Minister Lyne Chantal Boudreau and union representatives at Unifor’s Intimate Partner Violence Symposium on June 3 in Fredericton.
“We are thankful for Minister Boudreau’s participation in our Symposium and for participating in a conversation on the importance of the language of the motion,” said Unifor Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray. “Naming IPV as an epidemic is in line with the Mass Casualty Commission’s recommendations, aligns with legislation in Nova Scotia, and reflects advocacy efforts in other provinces.”
Recognition follows workplace advocacy
The motion reflects growing understanding among government, labour groups and frontline service providers about the need for increased funding, education and support for those experiencing violence, according to Unifor.
New Brunswick has among the highest rates of reported intimate partner violence across Atlantic Canada.
Union workplace advocates often serve as the first point of contact for employees experiencing violence and understand what community supports exist and where gaps remain, Murray said.
“Most importantly, it signals the urgency needed to address violence in our communities. This is an important first step and we look forward to working with the Minister and frontline service providers on the introduction of legislation,” she said.
Broader campaign across Canada
The New Brunswick declaration is part of Unifor’s broader campaign to have intimate partner violence formally recognized as an epidemic in every province and territory.
Nova Scotia passed similar legislation unanimously in September 2024 with Unifor’s support. The union has written to every premier urging them to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic.
“As workplace representatives, Unifor Women’s Advocates are often the first point of contact for someone experiencing violence and are well-informed on what supports exist in the community to support members and where critical gaps exist,” Murray said. “We hope and expect that government’s next steps will be to bring Unifor and frontline service providers together to build an informed and effective response.”
Murray and symposium delegates brought their call for action to the steps of the New Brunswick legislature earlier this week.
Unifor represents 320,000 workers across Canada’s private sector in major areas of the economy.
