April 24, 2013 Organization

Montréal - The Autorité des marchés financiers (the "AMF") and the Montréal Crime Victims Assistance Centre ("CAVAC") signed an agreement today in an effort to break the isolation of victims of financial crime and help them regain control over their lives.

The agreement sets up a protocol to enhance the support offered to victims of economic crime by allowing AMF staff to refer them directly to CAVAC. "Abuse of trust is at the heart of many financial scams in which AMF staff is asked to intervene, in particular staff assigned to investigations, litigation, compensation, client services and complaints. This abuse leaves scars which can lead to feelings of shame, sorrow, guilt, distress and anger," said Mario Albert, AMF President and Chief Executive Officer. He went on to say that "through a closer relationship with Montréal CAVAC, a recognized organization with specialized caseworkers, victims of economic crime will have better access to services and support adapted to their needs."

"Our caseworkers are trained to offer front-line psycho-socio-legal services to victims of financial crime. This agreement with the AMF will allow us to reach and assist sometimes vulnerable clients who may be reluctant to ask for help despite the impacts of victimization. Our association will facilitate access to resources based on the needs of victims referred to us by AMF staff and persons close to victims," said Jenny Charest, the head of Montréal CAVAC. "Our no-charge and confidential services are available to victims who would like support, whether or not the perpetrator is identified, apprehended, prosecuted or convicted. Our services are based on victims' needs and provided at the pace that's best for them," added Ms. Charest.

The agreement was entered into during the 8^th Annual National Victims of Crime Awareness Week. The theme of Victims Week this year is: "We All Have a Role." The goal is to raise awareness about issues facing victims of crime and the services, programs and laws in place to help victims and their families.

The Autorité des marchés financiers (the AMF) is the regulatory and oversight body for Québec's financial sector.

Through its rapid response, Montréal CAVAC meets the particular needs of persons of all ages who are crime victims or witnesses and their families, regardless of whether the perpetrator of the crime has been identified, arrested, prosecuted or convicted.

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Information:

Media only:
Autorité des marchés financiers
Sylvain Théberge: 514-940-2176
www.lautorite.qc.ca
Twitter :@lautorite This link will open in a new window

Montréal CAVAC
Noémie Crevier: 514-277-9860, ext. 2228