The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Justice, announced today that Jane Fitzpatrick will begin her duties as Executive Director of the Human Rights Commission on Wednesday, February 21, 2007.

Ms. Fitzpatrick was chosen as part of a public competition and a thorough selection process.

"Ms. Fitzpatrick�s significant experience working with the legal aid system as well as her knowledge of the social and criminal justice systems in the province will make her an undeniable asset to the Human Rights Commission," said Minister Osborne. "I congratulate her on her successful application and look forward to seeing the progress she will make in the coming months as Executive Director of the commission."

Before accepting her role as Executive Director of The Human Rights Commission, Ms. Fitzpatrick practiced law for 14 years, including positions as staff solicitor at the Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission and in the Crown Attorney�s office in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Ms. Fitzpatrick brings a wealth of experience with her to the new role including having worked extensively with Aboriginal communities. Ms. Fitzpatrick holds a Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Arts from Memorial University.

The Human Rights Commissions was established in 1971 and is mandated to promote an understanding and acceptance of, and compliance with, the provisions of The Human Rights Code. It protects individuals from discrimination and harassment and promotes equality of opportunity regardless of race, religion, religious creed, sex, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, political opinion, colour, or ethnic, national or social origin, sexual orientation and age.

For more information on the Human Rights Commission, visit //www.justice.gov.nl.ca/hrc/.

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Media contact:
Deborah Pennell
Director of Communications
Department of Justice
729-6985, 685-6612
deborahpennell@gov.nl.ca

2007 02 19                                                      10:30 a.m.