News Release Archive
JUSTICE--STREAMLINING OF SHERIFFS OFFICES ANNOUNCED
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Justice Minister Bill Gillis today announced the
streamlining of services provided by sheriffs' offices
across the province. The move is designed to increase
efficiency, while allowing sheriffs to concentrate on
critical areas of operation such as court security and
prisoner transportation.
Effective April 1, 1996, civil document service will be
reduced, and will become the responsibility of the parties
in the action. Documents can be served by any adult, so the
service can be provided by the private sector.
The restructuring will mean the deletion of 21 positions.
However, due to reassignment and attrition, the actual
number of layoffs will total only seven.
The restructuring means that documents which relate to
actions between private parties will no longer be served by
sheriffs. This includes divorce documents, originating
documents notices, and execution orders. As well, sheriffs
will no longer serve documents for the Residential Tenancies
Boards, Workers Compensation Board, and execution orders
relating to the Department of Finance. In future, those
initiating the action, or the relevant government
department, will be responsible for service and costs.
Sheriffs will continue to serve family court documents,
provincial fine warrants, and legal aid documents. They will
also continue with responsibilities relating to the federal
marshall, will continue to receive and disburse monies
collected as a result of private service of execution orders
and will conduct foreclosures sales. Sheriffs will also
continue to provide court security and prisoner
transportation.
In order to ensure a smooth transition of services, staff of
the Department of Justice will be conducting meetings with
lawyers and staff around the province to discuss the actual
implementation of the changes, and will seek input from
those affected.
"We believe this approach makes good economic sense, and it
provides an opportunity for the private sector to further
expand in this area," said Dr. Gillis. "We have consulted
widely regarding the role of sheriffs with the legal
community, the collections community and other government
departments before deciding on this course of action. We are
able to realize substantial cost savings, while continuing
with the critical service areas for sheriffs."
An annual net gain of approximately $460,000 is expected as
a result of this initiative.
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EDITORS NOTE: A backgrounder can be obtained by calling
902-424-4492.
Contact: Michele McKinnon 902-424-6811
trp Jan. 29, 1996 - 4:25 p.m.