Although the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry is in jeopardy due to many pertinent groups pulling out, North Coast MLA Gary Coons wants to inform the public that the “study commission” component of the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry is holding a hearing in Prince Rupert on September 12.

“For years we’ve been requesting government to investigate the dozens of missing and murdered young women on Highway 16 and finally this may be an opportunity to have your voice heard,” said Coons. “I believe the Highway of Tears has been on the "back-burner" for too long and resources must be allocated to examine the many cases of girls and women who have met violence on this stretch of highway.”

To date, 6 of the 13 groups involved in the Missing Women’s inquiry have withdrawn their involvement since the decision was made not to provide legal funding for each group.

“The credibility of the commission is at stake due to the Christy Clark government failing to provide any funding for groups to fully participate. The government is putting in jeopardy the inquiry by refusing to give funding to the 13 groups with standing and therefore is not giving voice to the very people that should have voice” said Coons, “But I believe that there is still an opportunity to get involved and voice one's concerns during the study commissions’ visits to northern communities.”

With pressure from many along the infamous highway and beyond, the scope of the Missing Women inquiry was broadened to include a study commission. The study commission will probe the issue of the rising number of missing and murdered women along Highway 16. This commission will be holding hearings in 9 communities along highway 16 from September 12-22.

Afternoon and evening sessions will be held in different communities between Prince Rupert and Prince George from September 12-22. Specific dates, times and venues will be announced shortly. The Commission believes it is important to hear directly from family members, and others, who have been most affected by the tragedy of murdered and missing women. The commission also encourages submissions by local organisations and individuals.

Organisations and individuals interested in participating in the forums are asked to contact the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry Office by Thursday, September 8 by email (infomissingwomeninquiry.ca) or by calling the toll free phone line (1-877-681-4470). Participants must provide their name and contact information. The commission will be in Prince Rupert on Monday, September 12 from 1-4 pm Northwest Community College. Visit http://www.missingwomeninquiry.ca/ways-to-participate/ and scroll down to the bottom of the page for more information.

“I encourage those with issues and concerns to speak to the Highway of Tears study commission. It’s an avenue to get involved, especially since few of the 33 recommendations from the March 2006 Highway of Tears symposium have been followed,” said Coons.” The inquiry should examine why after 5 years the BC Liberal government failed to act on many of the recommendations."