INCREASED FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY JUSTICE AND ABORIGINAL COURTWORKER PROGRAMS

The Government of Saskatchewan is providing $4.4 million to support 40 community-based agencies that offer community justice and Aboriginal Courtworker programs across the province.

"I am pleased we have been able to allocate additional funds to these organizations that provide significant services for Saskatchewan citizens and communities," Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan said. "This is a great example of how government can partner with local, community-based organizations to improve important aspects of the justice system."

Community-based justice programs offer services to victims, as well as offenders and their communities, in areas of restorative justice, crime prevention and public education. Currently, 69 of the 72 First Nations in the province are involved in community-based justice programs.

Aboriginal Courtworker programs, which also operate through community-based organizations, help ensure that Aboriginal people who are alleged to have committed a criminal offence receive fair and just treatment before the courts. Currently, courtworkers are available to nearly 80 per cent of court locations in Saskatchewan, offering services to approximately 12,000 clients annually.

Funding for these organizations and others is delivered through the ministry's Community Services Branch.

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For more information, contact:

Noel Busse
Justice
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8959
Email: noel.busse@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-551-9405