CHANGES TO VICTIMS OF CRIME LEGISLATION PROPOSED

Changes to victims of crime legislation will ensure the continued fairness of the victims' compensation program in Saskatchewan.

"The proposed amendments include setting out how victims of crime should be treated by including the list of guiding principles approved in 2003 by Ministers Responsible for Victims' Services in the Act," Justice Minister Frank Quennell said. "Inclusion of the guiding principles acknowledges the needs of victims and demonstrates that victims have a voice in the criminal justice process."

Several of the proposed changes apply to applications for compensation.

The time period for applications for compensation will increase from one year to two years from the date of the victim's injury or death. The amendments will change the application period for victims of sexual abuse. The application period will begin to run on the date the crime is reported to the police. In both instances, there will be an ability to extend the application period where appropriate. The proposed amendments will also allow for compensation to immediate family members of homicide victims for the costs of short-term counselling following the victim's death.

"These amendments will ensure that compensation will be available to all victims in appropriate circumstances," Quennell said.

Other proposed amendments to the Act allow for a refusal or reduction in compensation where the victim's injury or death occurred while he or she was participating in a criminal offence such as a drug deal, home invasion or assault and set out an appeal process concerning decisions about compensation.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Andrew Dinsmore Justice Regina Phone: (306) 787-8606