Colette Martin was brutally attacked by her ex-partner, who had a history of violence in previous relationships. However, Martin only became aware of this violent past during her ex-partner’s trial for the assault on her. She expressed regret at not knowing earlier, as it could have influenced her decisions in the relationship.
New Brunswick passed a law three years ago allowing police to reveal an individual’s history of intimate partner violence, inspired by the British Clare’s Law. Despite the legislation’s approval, the regulations necessary for its enforcement have not been finalized, delaying its implementation.
Martin emphasized the urgency of the law, stating that lives are at stake, and the delay could result in more fatalities. The law aims to establish guidelines on accessing and disclosing information on intimate partner violence history to prevent further harm.
Michelle Conroy, Miramichi East MLA, hailed the passing of the bill, known as “Colette’s law,” after Martin shared her story with legislators. Conroy expressed frustration over the delays in implementing the law, especially considering the unanimous recognition of intimate partner violence as an epidemic.
Conroy highlighted the need for prompt action by the government, citing the precedents set by other provinces like Saskatchewan and Alberta that have enacted similar laws. The law not only aims to prevent harm but also to reduce the trauma associated with intimate partner violence and the subsequent legal processes.
A recent report revealed that New Brunswick had the highest number of domestic homicides in the Atlantic provinces over a decade. Myrna Dawson, the report author, urged for urgency in implementing Colette’s law to prevent further tragedies and protect individuals from entering relationships with a history of domestic violence.
The call for swift action is echoed by advocates and survivors, emphasizing the critical importance of implementing measures to address intimate partner violence promptly.