FEWO Committee Report

Complementary opinion of the Bloc Québécois

The Bloc Québécois first reaffirms that health falls under Quebec’s jurisdiction and that the federal government must respect this provincial jurisdiction. As a result, Quebec can implement important information programs aiming the raise of public awareness in the human trafficking, its manifestations and its repercussions on women, girls and people of diverse gender and identities. In addition, Quebec can ensure the distribution of educational materials and training manuals to vulnerable populations, law enforcement and front-line service providers in the province. 

Furthermore, investments in support services for victims, such as support services that consider trauma and cultural realities, legal aid, and safe housing for victims of human trafficking, are also in Quebec’s jurisdiction.

The Bloc Québécois strongly opposes the compartmentalization of victims of human trafficking, emphasizing that all lives are equal and must have equitable access to services, regardless of ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Regarding funding for organizations and initiatives that support people, including Indigenous, Black, and migrant people, involved in the sex industry, including victims and survivors of human trafficking, as well as workers gender, the Bloc Québécois insists that this funding be done in the form of transfers to respect Quebec's skills. These services should cover the areas of law, justice, health, mental health, and addiction.

Finally, the Bloc Québécois opposes the establishment of a procedure aimed at expunging convictions prior to 2014 linked to consensual sex work.