DRAMATIC INCREASE IN SASKATCHEWAN'S FINE COLLECTION

The Fine Collection Branch of the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General is achieving impressive results in the collection of outstanding fines owed to the province.

A significant focus on collection activities, including a partnership with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has proven to be extremely effective, resulting in a dramatic increase of funds collected through the CRA program from $444,700 in 2008-09 to $3.7 million in 2010-11. This has allowed the ministry to improve its overall collection rate for unpaid fines to more than 83 per cent.

"These outstanding numbers are a reflection of this government's commitment to hold people accountable," Minister of Justice and Attorney General Don Morgan said. "Increasing the amount of fines collected is a priority for this government and we will continue to take steps to ensure fines are being paid."

Since the CRA Program was implemented in 2008-09, the branch has collected more than $4 million in fines that have been outstanding for more than five years. Given the age of these accounts, it is highly unlikely that these funds would have been collected without a partnership with the CRA and the dedication of the Enforcement Unit within the branch.

Other collection methods include garnishment of wages and bank accounts, seizure of personal property and in extreme situations, a hearing to determine if the individual should be incarcerated.

The Fine Collection Branch receives and processes approximately 150,000 tickets annually by law enforcement agencies throughout the province.

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For more information, contact:

Linsay Rabyj
Justice
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0775
Email: linsay.rabjy@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-540-4945