The Nipissing Violence Against Women Coordinating Committee is garnering municipal support in the region to declare intimate partner violence (IPV) an epidemic.
It says communities that have done so include Bonfield, Chisholm, East Ferris, Mattawa, Mattawan, and West Nipissing.
When it comes to North Bay, the committee says it was told IPV is not considered a municipal issue and wasn’t allowed to present to council.
“It is disheartening to not have the support of our largest municipality,” says Kathleen Jodouin, Executive Director of Victim Services of Nipissing.
Erika Lougheed, Executive Director at Amelia Rising, says it highlights the lack of awareness of IPV in North Bay.
“Despite a high number of police calls, costs to the healthcare system, strain on our housing system and the impact to the health and wellbeing of women and their children, IPV is not considered a concern for North Bay,” she says.
The city says that’s not the case.
A statement from Gord Young, Communications Officer, says the city’s procedural bylaw specifies that presentations during Regular Meetings of Council should be relevant to matters within the jurisdiction or influence of local government.
“While intimate partner violence is a societal issue, it does not directly relate to any City programs or services, and therefore, falls outside the purview of municipal jurisdiction,” reads the statement. “This is not intended to diminish the efforts of the Nipissing Violence Against Women Coordinating Committee, nor does it suggest that the City of North Bay fails to acknowledge intimate partner violence as a concern. There are alternative avenues available for community groups seeking support from the City of North Bay for events or causes, such as flag raisings, proclamations, and letters of support.”
The city also says the committee has presented or intends to present to various agencies and boards that include council representatives.
