Province accepts judge�s recommendation to fund lawyer for Reid family

Justice Minister Kelvin Parsons said today that government will accept Judge Donald Luther�s recommendation that funding for legal representation be provided to the family of the late Norman Reid for the upcoming judicial inquiry. Norman Reid was shot by RCMP officers in Little Catalina on August 26, 2000.

"In light of Judge Luther�s recommendations, and because the circumstances of this case are unique, we are prepared to change our established practice, and provide the Reid family with funding for representation at the inquiry as recommended," said Minister Parsons. "As the judge pointed out, this was a fatal police shooting, and as such we are prepared to abide by his recommendations."

The minister said that as a result of this decision, funding will also be provided for the family of the late Darryl Power of Corner Brook. A judicial inquiry will be held into his death, which occurred on October 16, 2000 when he was fatally shot by RNC officers.

"We agree with the judge that these fatal police shootings warrant special consideration and actions," noted the minister. "It does not mean that we will not adhere to our policies in future, but in cases like these, it is obviously appropriate to follow the judge�s recommendation that the family of the deceased have counsel provided to them at government�s cost."

Contact: Paula Dyke, Communications, (709) 729-0329

2001 02 21                            2:55 p.m.