The Minister of Justice, Simon Jolin-Barrette, presented the initiative via videoconference at a press briefing, while the CAQ MP for Laviolette-Saint-Maurice, Marie-Louise Tardif, was present at the site.

The project, which was fully adopted by the National Assembly in 2021, aims to better respond to the needs and realities of victims of sexual and domestic violence.

The project includes changes to the physical layout of the courthouse. The pilot project, for example, will ensure that victims do not come into contact with defendants when they are at the scene.

A room has also been set up for the victims. Also, videoconference rooms and screens will be made available to provide a more secure environment.

The project also provides for the establishment of new support services for victims, including support from interveners from various local organizations before, during and after the duration of the legal process, as well as also pairing with an intervener from assistance to victims of crime (CAVAC).

The proposed support will also take into account the specific needs of victims from Aboriginal communities. Moreover, specifically in La Tuque, the implementation of the pilot project is being done in collaboration with the Atikamekw community.

If the results are conclusive, the pilot project implemented at the La Tuque courthouse could eventually be launched across the province.