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The Honourable Rob Lantz, M.L.A.
Chair, Council of the Federation
Premier of Prince Edward Island
Dear Premiers,
Re: Premiers response to gender-based and intimate partner violence
I am writing to you collectively in advance of the 2026 Summer Meeting of the Council of the Federation to urge nationwide solidarity in declaring intimate partner violence an epidemic.
New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador have each formally recognized that intimate partner violence and gender-based violence are an epidemic. This is a significant step that acknowledges the magnitude of the problem.
In Canada, one woman is killed by an intimate or former intimate partner every six days. Almost half (44%) of Canadian women report having been subjected to some form of intimate partner violence (IPV).
A crisis of this magnitude requires a nationwide response. That is why I am urging each of the remaining provinces and territories to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic.
Designating gender-based and intimate partner violence an epidemic, underscores the severity of the crisis, promotes public awareness, and advocates a comprehensive, coordinated response from public health authorities and policymakers.
Major investigative bodies, including the Ontario Death Review Committee, the Renfrew Inquest, and the Mass Casualty Commission all formally recommended that governments declare IPV an epidemic.
Unifor understands that supporting workers means standing up for them in the workplace and beyond. Our union has bargained Women’s Advocates and language to support members experiencing intimate partner and domestic violence. Everyone deserves to live a life free from violence and we will continue to engage with all levels of government until this is a reality.
As the country faces economic headwinds, it’s more important than ever to ensure people have the support they need. This declaration is an essential first step to putting life-saving measures in place.
Sincerely,
Lana Payne, Unifor National President
