Sisters of Monica Burns spent last night outside in Prince Albert just ahead of a scheduled bail hearing for her accused killer.
Monica was found murdered on a remote snowmobile trail northwest of the city earlier this year.
Todd McKeaveny, the accused in her death, was scheduled to have a bail hearing at Prince Albert Court of Queen’s Bench on Tuesday afternoon.
Monica’s sisters — Sara Carriere-Burns, Michelle Burns and Katherine Burns — walked on Monday from City Hall to the courthouse, where they spent the night.
They say they are trying to be a voice for Monica, as well as all missing and murdered Indigenous women.
“It’s a really big issue in Canada and there is not enough awareness. There is also not enough help for these women,” said the sisters outside the courthouse this morning.
They say they hoped their presence helps make an impact on today’s bail hearing.
“I hope they see that our sister is loved and she can’t come home because we can’t post bail to bring her home. She doesn’t have a say at all, we are her voice.”
The bail hearing had been adjourned to next week in a quick court appearance. Michelle says the short hearing was frustrating, but they will be patient.
“Justice will come and it’s not the end. It’s just a start and for Monica we will do it again and fight for her.”
She says the support of the family is one of the most important things right now.
“We want to try and stay together instead of fall apart… we do have our moments where we do fight, but we love each other and want to stay together and stick together.”
The sisters say it was a cold night, but tarps and a lot of coffee helped them stay warm.