Victims of violent crime can expect speedier settlements and better access to support money thanks to a $100-million announcement by the Ontario government, Attorney General Chris Bentley said Tuesday.
The funding will go to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board, which constantly deals with a backlog of claims, Bentley said.
The new money is also expected to improve emergency expense costs for childcare, housing, meals, funeral expenses and counselling for those traumatized by crime.
"Dealing with the pain, the hurt, the violation of crime might require some professional assistance," Bentley said after a press conference at Toronto police headquarters.
People may be eligible for compensation if:
- They have been injured as a result of a violent crime committed in Ontario
- They are responsible for the care of a victim of crime and suffered a loss of income or had expenses as a result of the victim's injury or death
- They are the dependant of a deceased victim, in the case of murder
- They were injured while trying to prevent a crime or while helping a police officer make an arrest.
Chief Bill Blair praised the announcement, saying victims of crime and their families often have trouble recovering after their ordeal.
"The recovery of our victims and our communities is an obligation that each and every one of us shares," Blair said. "We are blessed to have partners who are compassionate, decent people."
Bentley said the cash injection, made during the National Victims of Crime Awareness Week, is the largest single commitment to victim support ever made by an Ontario government.
With a report from CTV Toronto's John Musselman
