Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, earlier today we had Marie Speakman here. I'm not sure if she still is here, but she is well-known and well-loved for her support for victims of sexual violence. It's my understanding that she has initiated some discussion with police around having a private space for sexual assault victims to receive services of support and the sexual assault kit that is used to collect evidence. I'm wondering if the Minister can tell us whether he is taking a role in this initiative to create a private space for this purpose. Mahsi.
Minister of Justice.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would certainly like to hear more about this private space. I've heard a small amount today, and I think last week. I certainly would be prepared to discuss the matter with the RCMP. I don't think I can make any financial commitments as to whether we would be in a position to provide such a space. Thank you.
I know the Minister hasn't had a lot of time to consider this, but would he agree that privacy is currently a problem and a dedicated space may be a solution?
I certainly concur that privacy would be an issue and a problem and I certainly would be willing to meet with the RCMP to discuss solutions to that problem.
May I also suggest that the Minister of Justice talk to the Minister of Health about whether there could be a dedicated space or whether there is already planned a dedicated space in the new hospital for the use of the sexual assault evidence collection kit?
I certainly don't know whether there is any dedicated space in the plans for the new hospital. I will, however, be pleased to speak with the Minister of Health about this issue.
Masi. Oral questions. Member for Yellowknife Centre.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, can I get a commitment from the Minister to follow up on these questions when he does his other follow-up to oral questions from this session? Mahsi.
Thank you. I'd be happy to make that commitment.
Masi. Oral questions. Member for Kam Lake.
