Peel Police Service Board and Peel Regional Police Mark International Women’s Day with Renewed Call for Action on Intimate Partner Violence

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brampton, ON – In recognition of International Women’s Day, the Peel Police Service Board and Peel Regional Police are reaffirming their commitment to the safety and well-being of women across Ontario by calling for continued collaboration on justice reform and enhanced public safety measures to address the growing crisis of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV).

Through a formal letter sent to Premier Doug Ford, Solicitor General Michael Kerzner, and Associate Minister of Auto Theft and Bail Reform Graham McGregor, the Board and Peel Regional Police emphasize the urgent need for stronger policies and enforcement mechanisms to address repeat IPV offenders, illegal firearm trafficking, and the rise in stranger sexual assaults committed by individuals with no legal status in Ontario.

The Peel Police Service Board continues to emphasize that while critical reforms are being pursued at the provincial level, there is also a pressing need for systemic changes at the federal level to address policy gaps that allow repeat violent offenders to remain in communities, enable the illegal flow of firearms across borders, and limit enforcement options against those who pose ongoing risks to public safety.

“The reality is clear—too many women continue to suffer in silence, living in fear of abusers who manipulate gaps in our justice system,” said Nando Iannicca, Chair of the Peel Police Service Board. “Peel Regional Police is leading the way with specialized enforcement and support teams, but policing alone cannot solve this crisis. We need a coordinated effort across all levels of government to ensure meaningful protections for victims and accountability for offenders.”

Peel Regional Police’s IPV Unit has been at the forefront of tackling one of the most persistent and complex crimes affecting communities. Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized that while PRP remains committed to prevention, intervention, and enforcement, addressing IPV requires a system-wide approach.

“Our officers witness firsthand the devastating impact of intimate partner violence, and we know that prevention and enforcement must go hand in hand,” said Chief Nishan Duraiappah. “We welcome the opportunity to work with our provincial and federal partners to explore solutions that enhance victim protection, improve oversight, and strengthen the ability of law enforcement to respond to high-risk cases before tragedy strikes.”

The Peel Police Service Board and Peel Regional Police stand ready to work alongside all levels of government to break the cycle of intimate partner violence and ensure that women across Ontario and Canada have the protections they deserve.

To view the letter, please click here

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