‘Troubling silence’: N.S coalition calls on province to address intimate partner violence

Brenda Tatlock-Burke, who was killed by her husband of 33 years on Oct. 19, 2024, in Enfield, N.S., is pictured. (Courtesy: Tara Graham)

The Transition House Association of Nova Scotia is making an urgent plea to the provincial government to address intimate partner violence.

The association called for “immediate action” to be taken at a press conference in Dartmouth on Thursday.

“We are here because Nova Scotians are deeply mourning the recent intimate partner homicides in our province, which have left families, friends and entire communities grieving unimaginable losses,” says Ann de Ste Croix, the association’s executive director.

The plea for change comes as intimate partner violence in the province is climbing at a disturbing rate.

Six Nova Scotians have been killed by their male partner in the last three months.

“These tragedies are not isolated incidents. They reflect a larger epidemic of intimate partner violence that we must confront together,” says de Ste Croix.

The association recently met with provincial officials, including Justice Minister Becky Druhan.

They say Thursday’s press conference was an “invitation” to the premier, as they call out the province’s “troubling silence” on the issue.

“There has been no clear direction from the government on how affected families and communities can access the services and support they desperately need,” says de Ste Croix. “This is not just an issue for those directly affected. It impacts all Nova Scotians. When violence tears through our communities, it leaves lasting scars.”

Premier’s response

At a cabinet meeting on Thursday, Premier Tim Houston spoke about the recent killings in the region.

“We feel (for) them as a province. We all experience that emotion. It’s a really difficult and sad situation,” says Houston.

As for the association’s invitation to meeting with him, Houston says he’s “sure” it will happen.

“I talk to Nova Scotians all the time and certainly this is one where I’m happy to talk to Nova Scotians and listen to them and work with them,” says Houston. “I don’t shy away from interacting with Nova Scotians and certainly not on sensitive issues like this.”

Houston says his government will continue to provide support on the issue, but classifies it as a “society” that requires everyone to play a role.

“If men see something, they should speak up. If Nova Scotians (see something) they should speak up…these are terrible, terrible tragedies,” he says.

NDP Opposition Leader Claudia Chender says the Houston government should be doing more.

“Today, the Premier referenced tragedy obliquely. He didn’t say gender-based violence. He didn’t say intimate partner violence. We didn’t acknowledge the families and the victims who have died,” says Chender. “We all need to take ownership…but we need leadership from this government on this issue. And there are so many things that they could do tomorrow. Platitudes are fine. Passing a bill is good, but action is needed,” she says.

Looking towards solutions

The association says they need more permanent core funding for things like case coordinators and administrative support.

While de ste Croix says there is no “set number” in mind for funding, she says permanent core funding for outreach workers, second stage housing and men’s intervention programs are needed.

“And we need increased support to culturally specific services in the province,” says de Ste Croix.

Druhan says the government is open to hearing suggestions and recommendations on behalf of the association and other partners.

“We’ve already increased funding around programming to support, prevent and address intimate partner violence,” says Druhan. “But it’s much more than funding. It’s also about how we do the work together to make sure that we are taking actions that have real impact.”

Durhan says work is underway by the Intimate Partner Death Review Committee.

“It is definitely progressing. We will be receiving the report in the spring. And I look forward to that. Recommendations will be made public at that time,” Druhan says.