N.S. justice minister apologizes for domestic violence comments
Brad Johns, the Nova Scotia minister of justice, has apologized for saying he does not think domestic violence is an epidemic in the province, a statement that has prompted calls from other politicians for his resignation.
Minister Johns made the comments when asked at the cabinet about the inquiry report on the 2020 mass shooting — which occurred four years ago Thursday — and its recommendation domestic violence be treated as an epidemic.
“No, I don’t because I think epidemic…you’re seeing it everywhere all the time,” Johns said. “I don’t think that’s the case. Personally I think this was an issue and is an issue.”
Johns said he thought there were bigger problems contributing to societal woes, such as drugs and guns.
Claudia Chender, leader of N.S. NDP, said the Mass Casualty Commission specifically chose the word “epidemic” to describe the domestic violence issue in the province.
“For the minister of justice, who is in charge in many ways for implementing these recommendations, to deny the notion that an epidemic exists says that he’s not fit to lead that office any longer.” Chender said.
In a statement later on Thursday, Johns said his comments “were wrong and have caused pain.”
“Domestic violence is a serious issue in Nova Scotia,” the statement reads. “I want survivors of domestic violence to know that they will be supported when they come forward and have confidence that when they do, they will be believed and treated respectfully.
“The pervasiveness of domestic violence and the harm it causes in our communities is not something that should ever be minimized and I am truly sorry that my words did so. This government, my department and I agree that domestic violence is an epidemic. “
Johns further noted in the statement domestic violence is a “pressing issue” and one that continues to be a top priority.
Premier Tim Houston also commented on the incident.
“As the Mass Causality Commission included in their report, domestic violence is an epidemic in Nova Scotia and in Canada," Houston said. "The commission was also clear that it played a role in the tragedy that occurred in 2020 and we will do everything we can to prevent a tragedy like this from ever happening again. This very much means addressing domestic violence in communities."
In a written statement, Adsum for Women and Children said it was “shocked and angered” by Johns’ remarks, noting it sees domestic violence on a daily basis.
“In the first two weeks of April, just one of our programs received calls from 18 women experiencing domestic violence,” the statement reads. “And like an iceberg, we only see the very tip of this epidemic.
“We call for an immediate retraction of Minister Johns’ comments and a recommitment by the Premier to his promises he made on the day the Mass Casualty Commission released its final report.”
In a social media post, Liberal leader Zach Churchill criticized Johns’ earlier comments.
“If he doesn’t believe domestic violence and gender-based violence are serious issues, he should resign or be removed from his post,” the statement reads.
-With files from the Canadian Press
For more Nova Scotia news visit our dedicated provincial page.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says
A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction."
Canada's air force took video of object shot down over Yukon, updated image released
The Canadian military has released more details and an updated image of the unidentified object shot down over Canada's Yukon territory in February 2023.
Invasive species could be hiding in your Christmas decor. Here's how to stop the spread
Make sure to look through your holiday decorations, as Christmas trees, wreaths, and other natural decor can have invasive insects, eggs, and plants that pose a threat to local ecosystems and the economy.
Sask. doctor facing professional charges in circumcision case
A Saskatoon doctor has been accused of unprofessional conduct following a high-cost adult circumcision that included a request for the patient to text unsecured post-op pictures of his genitals.
Notre Dame reopens its doors to Macron and other world leaders in a rare symbol of unity
France's iconic Notre Dame Cathedral is formally reopening its doors on Saturday for the first time since a devastating fire nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark in 2019.
'Shameful': Monument honouring fallen soldiers included names of living veterans
Veterans are asking for answers after discovering that two sculptures in Ontario honouring fallen soldiers include the names of many people who are very much alive.
Man arrested after 16-hour standoff with Barrie police seeks to be released from custody
The 43-year-old man taken to hospital in distress following a 16-hour armed standoff with Barrie police last month is seeking bail.
Northern Ontario man sentenced for killing his dog
WARNING: This article contains graphic details of animal abuse which may be upsetting to some readers. A 40-year-old northern Ontario man is avoiding prison after pleading guilty to killing his dog earlier this year.
Calgary company steps up to help grieving family with free furnace after fatal carbon monoxide poisoning
A Calgary furnace company stepped up big time Friday to help a Calgary family grieving the loss of a loved one.