Houston calls on Mass Casualty Commission to meet with families

The premier says uncertainty around the process is causing ‘further, unnecessary trauma’ for victims’ families

CITYnews halifax \ Mark Hodgins

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Nova Scotia’s premier says uncertainty around the inner-workings of the public inquiry digging into the Nova Scotia mass shooting is causing more trauma for victims’ families. 

Tim Houston’s comments come in a statement issued on the morning the inquiry begins in Halifax, nearly two years since a shooter took the lives of 22 Nova Scotians on Apr. 18-19 of 2020.

The premier said while Nova Scotians pushed for an honest and comprehensive inquiry, families feel “left in the dark”.

“It is still not even known if key witnesses have been subpoenaed to testify, if there will be an opportunity to cross-examine them or if it will be a comprehensive list of witnesses,” Houston said. “This uncertainty is causing further, unnecessary trauma.”

Houston said the Mass Casualty Commission should meet with families to hear their concerns and come up with a plan to ensure confidence in the process.

Nova Scotia’s Mental Health Crisis Line is available 24/7 by calling toll-free 1-888-429-8167. Kids Help Phone counsellors can be reached at 1-800-668-6868.

Additional mental health and wellness resources can be found here or by calling 211.