Achi news desk-
Brad Johns, Nova Scotia’s justice minister, has apologized for saying he does not believe domestic violence is an epidemic in the province.
Minister Johns made the comments when asked in cabinet about the report of the inquiry into the 2020 mass shooting — which happened four years ago on Thursday — and its recommendation to treat domestic violence as an epidemic.
“No, I don’t because I think epidemic … you see it everywhere all the time,” Johns said. “I don’t think that’s true. Personally, I think this is a problem and a problem.”
In a statement later Thursday, Johns said his comments were “wrong and hurtful.”
“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 with respect
“The pervasive nature 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 have done so. This government, my department and I agree that domestic violence is an epidemic. “
Johns further noted in the statement that domestic violence is a “pressing issue” and one that remains a top priority.
Premier Tim Houston also commented on the event.
“As the Mass Causation 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 part in the tragedy that happened in 2020 and we will do everything we can to prevent a tragedy like this from ever happening again. This really means tackling domestic violence in communities.”
In a social media post, Liberal leader Zach Churchill criticized Johns’ earlier comments.
“If he does not believe that domestic violence and gender-based violence are serious issues, he should resign or be removed from his position,” the statement reads.
More to come…
-With files from the Canadian Press
