More protections could be on the way to help New Brunswickers who are at risk of domestic abuse.
Proposed legislation introduced Tuesday would allow people to apply for info from police to learn whether their partner has a history of intimate partner violence.
Police would also be given the authority to share information with a person who may be at risk to encourage them to apply for disclosure.
In a news release, Public Safety Minister Kris Austin said this is an important step forward in reducing intimate partner violence.
“No one should live in fear of their partner. People need access to information to make good decisions,” said Austin.
Applicants would be provided with a risk assessment and contextual information, but would not be given details of criminal convictions or similar information. The assessment would be provided verbally and no documents would be issued.
Those who receive disclosure would not be allowed to share or publish the information, and the subject of the request would not be informed about any applications that have been made.
Tammy Scott-Wallace, the minister responsible for women’s equality, said the legislation would provide another tool to help support domestic and intimate partner violence victims.
“People in new relationships who see warning signs will be able to access this critical information that could help them evaluate risks and make decisions for their personal safety,” Scott-Wallace.
She said applicants could also be offered and referred to programs and support services to ensure they have the help they need.
Saskatchewan and Alberta already have similar legislation in place.
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