The Saskatchewan government is stepping in to sustain two human trafficking liaison positions within the Saskatoon Police Service, committing $160,000 in funding after federal support for the roles came to an end.
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The provincial investment, announced last week on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, ensures the continuation of the specialized human trafficking responder/liaison positions.
Operating out of Victim Services, the responders provide co-ordinated crisis support, court navigation and trauma-informed advocacy for survivors, while delivering education and training to first responders and community partners.
Justice minister and attorney general Tim McLeod said the funding is aimed at strengthening frontline supports and preventing further exploitation.
“Human trafficking is a serious crime that can leave lasting impacts on victims, survivors and their families,” McLeod said in a statement. “This funding will strengthen frontline supports for victims and survivors, improve co-ordination among service providers and help prevent further exploitation as we continue working to create safer communities across Saskatchewan.”
Saskatoon Police Chief Cameron McBride highlighted the impact of having dedicated personnel embedded with police, noting the funding will allow the department to maintain its full response team.
“Our team provides specialized support to survivors and works alongside our community partners to develop and deliver trauma-informed training to prosecutors and first responders,” McBride said.
Industry leaders also welcomed the provincial bridge funding. Jim Bence, president and CEO of Hospitality Saskatchewan, noted that the roles serve as an essential link for frontline hospitality staff, health care workers, and law enforcement trying to assist individuals escaping exploitation.
“It is important to note that these positions, previously funded by the federal government, are invaluable to the work that industry, law enforcement, health care and support services depend on when trying to assist those most vulnerable,” Bence said.
The $160,000 commitment is being drawn from Saskatchewan’s implementation agreement under the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, a joint federal-provincial initiative.
To date, the province’s Ministry of Justice has allocated more than $8 million toward programs under the action plan, part of an overall annual provincial spend of more than $70 million targeting interpersonal violence and abuse.
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