Justice and Public Safety
January 17, 2017
Taking an Innovative Approach to Justice
Feasibility Study Continues on Drug Treatment Court
The Department of Justice and Public Safety is moving forward with the next phase of consultation for the feasibility study on a Drug Treatment Court for Newfoundland and Labrador. This phase involves key stakeholders and community service providers and invites the general public to provide feedback. This next step will build on the work already completed including internal consultations, site visits, and an analysis of existing Drug Treatment Courts through-out the country, while continuing to work collaboratively with Justice Canada on this project. The feasibility study will be complete in spring 2017.
“The success and sustainability of a Drug Treatment Court will depend in large measure on the availability of community resources that support intervention and case management for those with addiction needs. Our government is committed to cooperation and collaboration with stakeholders as we all strive towards a stronger justice system.”
- The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General
The feasibility study will reflect information in such areas as best practices, treatment, community and health resources, housing supports and the potential demand for a Drug Treatment Court. The feasibility study will also look at the possibility of partnerships to provide the ongoing support that would be required for such a court. In addition to consulting with stakeholders, any resident of the province can provide their thoughts by visiting www.justice.gov.nl.ca/just/dtc_feasibility_study.html. The public have until January 31 to submit their views.
“Our government recognizes the need to take an innovative approach to our justice system. Drug Treatment Courts are problem-solving courts that are different from the traditional court process, providing an alternative to incarceration. Before establishing such a court, we must first assess the feasibility but I am optimistic we can bring this initiative forward soon.”
- Minister Parsons
Drug Treatment Courts are intended for offenders with serious drug addictions, who commit non-violent, drug-motivated offences. The aim is to reduce the number of crimes committed to support drug addictions by offering court monitored treatment, random and frequent drug testing, incentives and sanctions, clinical case management and social services support.
QUICK FACTS
- The Department of Justice and Public Safety is moving forward with the next phase of consultation for the feasibility study on a Drug Treatment Court for Newfoundland and Labrador.
- This phase involves key stakeholders and community service providers and invites the general public to provide feedback and will build on the work already completed.
- The feasibility study will be completed in spring 2017.
- Any resident of the province can provide their feedback by January 31 by visiting www.justice.gov.nl.ca/just/dtc_feasibility_study.html.
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Media contact:
Lesley Clarke
Director of Communications (A)
Department of Justice and Public Safety
709-729-6985, 699-2910
LesleyClarke@gov.nl.ca
2017 01 17 10:55 a.m.