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Province commits to funding for second victim services worker in La Loche

Mar 3, 2016 | 4:33 PM

In an effort to provide additional and immediate support to residents of La Loche, a second police- based victim services position is being created in the northern community.

“I saw the outstanding work victim services employees are doing in La Loche when I visited in late February, and have no doubt this new position will help meet the significant demand for victims services in the area on an ongoing basis,” Gordon Wyant, Saskatchewan Justice Minister and Attorney General said.   

The ministry is committing to $60,000 plus administrative expenses to North Sask. Victim Services Inc. (NSVS) on an annual basis for the new position.

“We are delighted with news of additional funding for a second victim service position in La Loche,” Betsy Kelly, NSVS Executive Director said.

She said the two positions will enable her organization to better serve and support victims of crime in the La Loche RCMP detachment area.

Since the incident, additional victim service workers have been in La Loche because of the increased demand for victim services. According to the ministry, employees work closely with police in providing information, support and referrals to victims of crime. This work helps lessen the immediate and long-term effects of victimization.

Additionally, the compensation limit for counselling available through the Victims Compensation Program has been increased from $2,000 to $5,000, providing victims throughout Saskatchewan with additional resources and support in the recovery process.

On Jan. 22, an armed youth killed four people and injured seven more during a mass shooting in the northern community of La Loche, Sask. The youth shot two teenaged boys at a private residence before travelling to the La Loche Community School and killing two more.

 

cswiderski@jpbg.ca

On twitter: @coltonswiderski