Web Archive
January 27, 2012
For immediate release
Ministers meet in Charlottetown to discuss justice and public safety issues
Environment, Labour and Justice
I was very pleased to have the opportunity to host and co-chair this meeting, said Minister Sherry. I appreciated being able to meet with my colleagues from all across Canada and have in-depth discussions on key justice and public safety issues facing Canadians.
A broad range of issues were discussed including violence against Aboriginal women and girls; the final report of the working group on missing women; amendments to the Criminal Code; mental health, addictions and justice; policing services; legal aid; crime prevention and rehabilitation; and justice system reform.
Bill C-10, which brings together a range of criminal justice reforms, featured prominently in the discussions. Provincial and territorial ministers noted their concerns on the elements of C-10 which are expected to result in additional pressures on the justice system, including the need for increased funding. The provinces and territories presented a resolution in regards to collaboration and consultation on the financial and operational impact of criminal law reform.
In anticipation of C-10 being passed, Prince Edward Island has requested a cost-sharing agreement with the federal government, said Minister Sherry. I have also asked that the provincial government be consulted on the proclamation schedule, so we can better prepare for these changes.
I was very pleased that all ministers wanted to work together to address the challenges that mental health issues create for the justice system, said Minister Sherry. We have asked our senior officials to engage with their health and social services counterparts and develop a plan to more effectively manage how services are provided to clients with mental health issues.
In discussing priorities for moving their work forward, ministers identified the need to collaborate in achieving justice system reform. They also discussed the importance of prevention as an effective means to reduce crime and thus victimization. Ministers requested senior officials to establish two committees one on prevention and rehabilitation and the other on access to justice and justice system reform.
