Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan announced that funding has been approved for the community agencies that offer community justice and the Aboriginal Courtworker programs.
"Community agencies which provide alternatives to the court process, work with youth in the communities and assist Aboriginal accused through the court process are important as these are valued services within the criminal justice system," Morgan said. "Saskatchewan is a leader in offering these programs that support victims and hold offenders accountable. I am pleased that our government has been able to allocate additional funds to the organizations that do such important work for Saskatchewan people."The Ministry of Justice and Attorney General will provide annual funding of $4,518,000 for the 2010-2011 fiscal year to 35 community agencies offering community justice and Courtworker programs across Saskatchewan, an increase of $136,000 over the 2009-2010 funding level.
A one per cent increase across the board for community agencies funded by the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General was part of the 2010-11 provincial budget.
The ministry supports community justice programs in which First Nations, Tribal Councils and community agencies take part in providing justice services such as crime prevention, public education, resolving community conflict, and involving victims, offenders and community members in responding to crime.
The Aboriginal Courtworker Program is responsible for assisting the accused person throughout the court process. This includes explaining the reason for the charges and providing general information on legal rights and responsibilities.
