News release

New Justice Centre for Yarmouth

Justice

Yarmouth is getting a new justice centre.

The province will move out of an historic building owned by the Municipality of the District of Yarmouth, and will build a modern facility similar to the Port Hawkesbury Justice Centre, which is now under construction.

Justice Minister Michael Baker unveiled plans for the new facility today, Sept. 13, in Yarmouth. He was joined by Natural Resources Minister Richard Hurlburt and Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Chris d'Entremont.

"Everyone who uses the existing space knows it is time for this important investment in our justice system," said Mr. Baker. "We're going to provide a safe, healthy working space for the public, the judiciary and staff who work in the various justice- related agencies.

"We will also form a courthouse users' committee to make sure we have strong local representation as we plan a modern, functional justice centre, one that meets the needs of southwestern Nova Scotia for many years to come. We want to hear from members of the judiciary, the local bar and other users."

The new facility will be built, subject to capital funding and technical approvals, at 164 Main St. on land to be donated by the town of Yarmouth. The building will be designed to ensure the independence of the judiciary. It will also provide space for the public prosecution service, correctional services, court services, legal aid and victim services.

"We are very pleased that Mr. Baker, Mr. d'Entremont and our MLA, Mr. Hurlburt, are with us today for the announcement of a new justice centre for this area," said Mayor Charles Crosby. "The town of Yarmouth is happy to partner with the province of Nova Scotia and donate the land for this new facility. Our council is excited to be part of this new development which will serve as an anchor and cornerstone for the revitalization of south Main Street."

The Municipality of the District of Yarmouth, which owns the building where courtrooms are now located, will take over the vacated space when the new justice centre opens.

"The Department of Justice has been a good tenant in this historic building for many years and it has served this region well," said Warden Chris Perry. "It is appropriate at this time to enhance the services for our Justice Department and provide courtroom space that is more accessible and modern. The Municipality of Yarmouth hopes to put the vacated space to good use with the co-operation of the province."

"Combined with the positive impact of the new Southwest Nova Scotia Correctional Facility, the new justice centre will add another economic boost to this region," said Mr. Hurlburt. "Local wholesale and retail businesses will benefit as this most recent construction project unfolds. This is most welcome news."

The court services division provides administrative and operational support to the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal, Supreme Court of Nova Scotia (general and family division), provincial court, family court, small claims court, probate court and bankruptcy court.