The Alice Paquet sex assault allegations have prompted an increase of calls to at least one rape crisis center in Montreal.
"It wasn't even noon and we already received 25 calls," said Rita Acosta, counsellor with the Movement Against Rape and Incest as she described the day Paquet accused an MNA of sexually assaulting her.
"They were asking for information and for services."
MNA for Laurier-Dorion Gerry Sklavounos left the Liberal caucus at the request of its president following the allegations. He is sitting as an independent. Sklavounos has not been charged with any crime and has denied the accusations.
Acosta said it's not the first time a highly publicized case has prompted so many calls at sexual assault support centers like theirs.
"I remember when the case of Nathalie Simard became public, that was like, oh my god, it was really crazy here at the center but as well at the other CALACS (Centre d’aide et de lutte contre les agressions à caractère sexuel) around the area and even across Quebec, I would say," said Acosta, referring to the former child star who was sexually assaulted by her ex-manager, Guy Cloutier.
"When something like this comes out, they realize that it's not only them that has gone through a rape but that there are many women - that's why I think that (prompts) them to call."
Acosta encourages victims to step forward, adding that for anyone who needs support, they are open 24/7.
"I think that it's important for women to feel comfortable, that there are places they can be heard without any judgement," said Acosta.
"The shame should never be put on the women as such but rather on the rapist or on the people who are doing that to the women, so I think that's very important for women to understand."