By CHAT News Today

'There is hope if we act now'

Paul Brandt to chair Alberta’s Human Trafficking Task Force

May 19, 2020 | 11:58 AM

Alberta is stepping up its fight against human trafficking.

The province has appointed a seven-member task force to find ways to prevent human trafficking and empower survivors.

Canadian country music star and anti-human trafficking advocate Paul Brandt will chair the task force. He said human trafficking is a difficult subject but one that we must confront.

“The need is great, the stakes are high but there is hope if we act now,” he said at a news conference announcing the task force Tuesday.

The task force will provide guidance and recommendations on how to best implement the government’s nine-point action plan to combat human trafficking.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

Dec 14, 2024

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

Dec 12, 2024

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

The government’s newly appointed Human Trafficking Task Force will find ways to prevent human trafficking and protect and empower survivors.

“Alberta should be a place where people can live safely, free from exploitation and coercion. Sadly, human trafficking exists in our province, and it is our duty to bring these human rights violations to light and do more to protect those at risk,” said premier Jason Kenney. “This provincial Human Trafficking Task Force brings together knowledgeable and dedicated individuals to provide advice on protecting and empowering some of Alberta’s most vulnerable.”

Alberta’s justice minister and solicitor general said the government is committed to preventing human trafficking networks from taking root in the province, whether sexual exploitation, forced labour or illegal organ trade.

“Our government will always stand up for innocent, at-risk individuals who are being bought and sold in our province. This task force includes advocates with the skills and experience to do this important work,” said Doug Schweitzer.

The first two meetings will be held on May 20 and 21.

In addition to Brandt, the task force also includes:

• Heather Forsyth – former solicitor general and former minister of Children’s Services
• Dale McFee – chief of police, Edmonton Police Services
• Jan Fox – executive director, REACH Edmonton
• Douglas Reti – director, Backwoods Energy, and former RCMP director general
• Patricia Vargas – director, Catholic Social Services
• Tyler White – CEO, Siksika Health Services