Minister and Chief Judge welcome Russian delegation

Justice Minister Kelvin Parsons and Provincial Court Chief Judge M. Reid join in welcoming a 15-member Russian delegation of judges, heads of regional justice departments and court administrators.

The group will be visiting the province from September 8-15, as part of the Canada-Russia Judicial Partnership Programme. They will undertake a study tour of the province�s court system as one component of their Model Court Project.

"We have a court system that operates at a high level of efficiency and effectiveness,"said Minister Parsons. "I�m pleased this group recognizes this province as having a model court system."

It is hoped the information gathered during the tour will assist the Russians as they seek to institute reform throughout their district courts. This is part of a broader project focused on reforming the Russian judicial system, inherited from the former USSR, into a modern democratic system modeled on the Canadian justice system.

Throughout their visit the delegation will be hosted by the Provincial Court of Newfoundland and Labrador. Lectures, demonstrations and meetings are planned. They will also be given the opportunity to experience the province�s rich natural and cultural heritage.

On behalf of the Provincial Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, Chief Judge Reid wishes the group a productive and enjoyable study tour.

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

2002 09 06                                    12:50 p.m.