News Release Archive
JUSTICE--INTERPROVINCIAL SUBPOENA ACT PROCLAIMED ----------------------------------------------------------------- The Interprovincial Subpoena Act has been proclaimed, Justice Minister Bill Gillis said today. Lieutenant Governor J. James Kinley signed the proclamation which signifies the act is now in force. The Interprovincial Subpoena Act was introduced in the Legislature March 29, and was moved quickly through the legislative process. The act is designed to recognize and enforce subpoenas from other jurisdictions with reciprocal legislation. Under the act, a subpoena can be obtained in Nova Scotia and enforced in another province in Canada with similar legislation. The Interprovincial Subpoena Act has already been adopted in every other common law province in Canada and the Yukon. Once a subpoena has been obtained in Nova Scotia, it is sent (along with witness fees and travelling expenses) to a court in a reciprocating jurisdiction for enforcement. These fees and expenses have been set by regulation. The act will provide assistance in compelling the appearance of necessary witnesses in legal matters. Definitions of court differ across jurisdictions. In Nova Scotia, a "court" is defined to include a board, commission, tribunal, or other body that is designated in regulation. Should another jurisdiction have a more narrow definition of court, a subpoena issued by a board, commission, tribunal or other similar body may not always be enforced. "I am very pleased we were able to move this bill forward quickly," said Dr. Gillis. "This is important legislation, not only for the possible impact it could have on the Westray Inquiry, but for the assistance it will provide in compelling the appearance of witnesses in future legal matters." -30- Contact: Michele McKinnon 902-424-6811 trp Apr. 23, 1996 - 1:51 p.m.