MMIWG: Official Statement by Commissioner Michèle Audette

June 20, 2018

On June 5th, I announced I would take time to reflect, analyze and consider my future participation in the National Inquiry in light of the Government of Canada’s deeply regrettable decision to deny the full extension requested by the Commissioners.

Fully committed to my role as a Commissioner, I have always felt a profound duty to ensure the National Inquiry delivers on its important mandate and the expectations of all those who fought for decades for its establishment. That is why I resist resigning myself to accepting this government decision that limits the ability of the National Inquiry to gather evidence and uncover the truth about systemic causes of violence, and to support families and survivors.

Over the last two weeks, I’ve listened to family members who have lost a loved one, survivors of violence, members of the National Family Advisory Circle, Grandmothers, leaders, mentors, my family, and my colleagues. I am truly grateful for their advice, support and perspective.

While I continue to feel deep disappointment in the government and regret that the final report will not be as comprehensive as it could have been, my heart will not let me walk away from my commitment. What cannot be accomplished by the National Inquiry will be clearly set out in our recommendations to the government, for which they will ultimately be held to account.

Today, I reaffirm my promise to the missing and murdered, to the families and to the survivors to continue the journey with them as a Commissioner.

Commissioner Michèle Audette

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