Minister Forms Stakeholder Committee to Examine
Concerns Raised about Justice Changes

The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice, today announced that given some of the concerns raised regarding changes in the Department of Justice, a committee of stakeholders will be formed to examine those concerns.

“After listening to some of the concerns, I have consulted with the Premier, and she has directed that a committee be struck to hear those concerns firsthand and work together toward maintaining a justice system that operates in a manner that is safe, effective and efficient,” said Minister King. “The committee will be tasked with exploring the issues raised in detailed fashion, developing measures to minimize impacts, and work to find effective solutions to ensure we continue to have a well-functioning justice system.”

The committee is expected to meet within the next few days.

“The committee will complete its work as expeditiously as possible,” said the Honourable Tom Marshall, QC, Attorney General. “We will closely examine the recommendations and make decisions based on the information provided. Our ultimate goal, as it has always been, is to ensure we have a first-rate justice system in the province.”

Along with the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General, others who will participate on the committee include:

• Honourable Jerome Kennedy, QC, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board
• Ernest Boone, QC, High Sheriff
• Nick Avis, QC, Chair of the Board of Commissioners of the Legal Aid Society
• Donovan Molloy, Director of Public Prosecutions
  
• Robert E. Simmonds, QC

Due to the principle of judicial independence, the judiciary is unable to participate directly in the work of the committee. However, Minister King will seek and welcome the views of the Chief Justices and Chief Judge for the province.

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Media contact:
Luke Joyce
Director of Communications
Department of Justice
709-729-6985, 725-4165
lukejoyce@gov.nl.ca

2013 04 05          6:30 p.m.