The NDP has tabled a private members bill to help victims of domestic violence escape abusive relationships.
Bill 603, introduced Wednesday by the NDP’s critic for women, Nicole Sarauer, would allow those fleeing violence to terminate rental agreements more easily. It also imposes a duty on employers to accommodate workers in that situation, notably by offering up to 17 weeks of continuous leave.
In presenting her bill, Sarauer noted that similar legislation exists in other provinces, including Ontario and Manitoba.
“Victims of domestic violence in our province have no protection to keep their jobs while they try to escape a dangerous relationship,” she said.
“Saskatchewan employers have no obligation to make sure that victims of domestic violence are protected while they’re at work.”
Currently, Saskatchewan has the highest rates of domestic violence of any province in Canada.
For more on this story, please see the the March 17 print or e-edition of the Daily Herald.
