Fathers Day Rally

NOON on SATURDAY June 17th till 2:00 pm
BC Legislature, Victoria BC

Victoria Men's centre Society Box 8082, Victoria B.C. V8W 3R7

June 5, 2000

NEWS RELEASE

SUBJECT: FATHER'S DAY RALLY IN VICTORIA

THEME: B.C. Families Demand Access Enforcement Legislation

WHEN: June 17th. 2000; 12 Noon to 2:00 pm

WHERE: In front of the Provincial Legislature Buildings

ALL ARE WELCOME. MOTHERS, FATHERS, CHILDREN, NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS, EXTENDED FAMILY AND CONCERNED CITIZENS.

BACKGROUND: On April 14, 2000, the Government of Alberta (News Release No. 00-023) proclaimed "The Family Law Statutes Amendment Act to help enforce child custody and access orders and protects the rights of non-custodial parents to spend time with their children." - Dave Hancock, Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

This Act identifies the remedies and sanctions for breaking child access orders and improves access to the judicial system for those seeking enforcement of child access orders. "This legislation protects the best interests of the children involved in child custody or access disputes," said Justice Minister Dave Hancock. "It also helps enforce child access orders that allow parents and other individuals to have continuing involvement in a child's life.

" Under the Act, failure to comply with child access orders can result in: - Another period of access to replace the access that has been denied; - Bonds to ensure access is provided; - Fines of up to $5,000; - Mandatory counseling, education and mediation; - Imprisonment of up to 90 days; and, - Police assistance in gaining access.

The legislation provides greater court access to non-custodial parents and family members who are seeking enforcement of child access orders. The Act addresses some concerns about current remedies for breaches of child access available to parents and family members. For more info see: http://www.gov.ab.ca/just/

OUR CONCERNS: Why hasn't the Government of British Columbia proclaimed similar legislation if they are genuinely concerned to "protect the best interests of the children involved in child custody or access disputes"? Make your voice heard. Sign our petition, contact your MLA now !

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