Families of victims of crime want more aid from Quebec program

Parents whose children have been murdered say the government is not doing enough to help in their grief.

There is a public program, known as IVAC – Indemnisation des victimes d’actes criminels, but parents say the rules are too restrictive and too many families do not qualify.

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Some of these parents made a plea at the National Assembly on Thursday, asking for more financial aid during the court process and psychological assistance for as long as they need it. Parents whose children are killed outside of Quebec say they should be eligible too.

Both the Parti Quebecois (PQ) and the CAQ brought up this issue in Thursday’s question period. They want to know why IVAC gives 50 per cent less compensation than other government aid programs.

PQ deputy leader, Veronique Hivon, explained it’s not a question of money — there’s currently $40 million in the IVAC fund.

“I think the money is there, so we are just asking for the willingness to do this in order to show some compassion for these parents,” she said.

The PQ estimates that to cover all families who’ve lost a loved one would cost $3 million.

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Justice Minister Stéphanie Vallée said those requests are being looked at, but she isn’t ready yet to make any announcements.

“The request, I consider it serious. I consider that we have to do something and I will be presenting something within the next few months I believe, hopefully as soon as possible,” she said.