News release

Minister Recognizes Contribution

Justice

Justice Minister Alan Mitchell today congratulated Jerry Pitzul, director of the Public Prosecution Service, on his appointment as Judge Advocate General of the Canadian Forces. Mr. Pitzul will continue as director of the prosecution service until April 14, 1998, when he begins his new duties in Ottawa.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for Jerry, and I want to be the first to wish him well," said Mr. Mitchell. "This appointment is indicative of the respect Jerry has earned within the legal community. We have been very well served by his leadership here in Nova Scotia. His legacy is one of progress and positive change."

Mr. Pitzul became director of the Public Prosecution Service in 1995. During his tenure, he implemented many changes stemming from recommendations contained in the 1994 Ghiz/Archibald report such as the enhanced use of technology and improved physical facilities. The report was a review of the Public Prosecution Service conducted by the late Joseph Ghiz, then dean of law at Dalhousie Law School, and Prof. Bruce Archibald, also of Dalhousie Law School.

Mr. Pitzul also established the Interagency Working Group on Crown Disclosure, opened dialogue between the defence bar and the Public Prosecution Service, and initiated a feasibility study into the creation of a Public Prosecution Justice Institute.

Mr. Pitzul obtained a master of business administration in 1976 from Dalhousie University. In 1979, he graduated from Dalhousie Law School and was admitted to the bar that same year. Before joining the Public Prosecution Service, he spent several years with the Canadian Forces, reaching the rank of lieutenant-colonel and serving as special assistant to the Judge Advocate General.

An acting director of public prosecutions will be appointed within the next several weeks.

The Public Prosecution Service participates in the prosecution and resolution of approximately 75,000 cases annually.