Through monies allocated in last year's budget, my department was able to engage a consultant to research and consult on interpretation issues in the justice system. The consultant�s report has been summarized and translated into Inuktitut and Innu-aimun, and distribution of this document is currently underway. Following the recommendations, we allocated $424,000 for an aboriginal interpretation initiative. With these funds we will develop and deliver a legal interpreters course for Innu and Inuit interpreters in Labrador through the College of the North Atlantic and we will be able to hire staff interpreters in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Nain and Natuashish. We will also hire a senior advisor who will facilitate access to justice activities and work directly with communities to improve dialogue and understanding.

I am particularly pleased with the collaborative effort that was demonstrated through the development of this initiative. My department has identified and engaged all relevant stakeholders and has fully researched existing programs to follow best practices for interpretative services for aboriginal peoples. Furthermore, we are actively building partnerships with aboriginal communities in Labrador, with educational resources, including the College of the North Atlantic, Memorial University and the Department of Education, as well as with the Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador. I am very excited and enthusiastic about this initiative and look forward to working with our partners to make this as meaningful and responsive as possible for people in Labrador, and I wish to congratulate all of those who were involved the development of these new services.

Once again, these new interpretive service improvements are yet further evidence of our government�s commitment to be proactive and fully engage residents and communities all across this province, especially the people of Labrador.

2007 06 07                                            1:50 p.m.