Justice Department gives final notice on overdue fines

Justice Minister Kelvin Parsons today announced that a final notice of overdue fines will be issued to individual debtors.

In December 2001, Minister Parsons announced new initiatives in fines collection. The Department of Justice information technology experts have implemented a system, which makes it possible to file judgments against debtors in a more timely manner with electronic filing.

Effective today, the department will begin a process of issuing final notices to individuals who have overdue fines. Payment must be received in full within 60 days of the notice date and failure to comply will result in the amounts being registered with the Supreme Court Trial Division and then the Sheriff�s Office. Civil action such as wage attachment or property seizure will commence immediately.

"These are stiff measures," said Minister Parsons, "but it is the responsibility of this department to ensure every possible action is taken to recover outstanding debts."

The current estimate of unpaid fines owed to the province is $18 million, of which about $13 million has remained unpaid for more than two years. Under the new electronic regime, once a judgment is registered it becomes subject to credit checks which can affect a person�s credit rating.

Media contact: Edwina Bateman, Communications, (709) 729-6985.

2002 05 01                        9:35 a.m.