Survivors of intimate partner violence should get paid leave

HALIFAX – A bill tabled today by the Liberal government to provide protected leave to survivors of intimate partner violence does not go far enough. Victims and survivors need paid leave from work.

“When a person is escaping violence at home they shouldn’t also be worried about how they’re going to pay their bills,” said NDP Labour spokesperson Tammy Martin. “People should not be penalized financially when they are dealing with being victimized by a family member or partner.”

The NDP introduced legislation earlier this month that would create five days of paid leave and protect up to ten days of leave in a calendar year for people experiencing both intimate partner and sexual violence.

“Survivors of violence require support to help them heal and access appropriate services,” said NDP Leader Gary Burrill. “Other provinces are moving in this direction. Nova Scotia should do the right thing and ensure survivors of intimate partner violence don’t also have to worry about how they’re going to put food on the table.”

The federal government, along with Manitoba and Ontario provide five paid days of leave for people who have experienced domestic violence.

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