The government is sending a very “bad message” to victims by not providing immediate help to those who try to report a situation of misconduct or sexual violence in a school, according to the Centrale des unions du Québec (CSQ). A situation described as “unacceptable” by the opposition in Quebec.
La Presse reported Friday morning that the line set up by the Ministry of Education to report a situation of misconduct or sexual violence in a school systematically sends people to a voicemail, even during opening hours on weekdays. 1 833 DENONCE invites those who call to leave their name and telephone number.
The CSQ believes that no matter who chooses to report a situation experienced in a school, that person must receive “prompt and direct assistance”.
“Otherwise, it’s just window dressing and more likely to fuel cynicism. And that’s really not the message to send to the victims, who are showing a lot of courage, “said its president, Éric Gingras, in a press release.
Quebec solidaire’s education critic considers the situation “unacceptable”.
“When it comes to sexual assault, the government needs to listen to the experts. They tell us that a voicemail is not a solution,” says Ruba Ghazal.
Organizations that work with victims of sexual violence have indeed testified to La Presse that it is “essential” that those who pick up the phone to report a situation can speak to someone in person.
Liberal Party education critic Marwah Rizqy says it’s “ridiculous” that the Quebec City phone service puts complainants to voicemail and isn’t available 24 hours a day.
Ruba Ghazal calls on Education Minister Bernard Drainville to “go beyond a phone line and adopt a framework law to combat sexual violence in our schools”.
The office of Minister of Education Bernard Drainville did not respond to La Presse’s request for an interview on Friday morning.
