Minister Brings Nova Scotia Concerns to Quebec Meetings

Justice Minister Cecil Clarke is planning to be in Quebec City for three days of meetings with his provincial counterparts and the federal Justice Minister Rob Nicholson.

"We know that crime prevention is a priority for Nova Scotians and this is a great opportunity to ensure the issues we care about are raised," said Mr. Clarke. "I committed to sharing our findings and recommendations on the use of conducted energy devices with my colleagues and I plan to do that."

The annual federal-provincial meetings run from Wednesday, Sept. 3 to Friday, Sept. 5.

During the meetings, Mr. Clarke will also raise issues under federal jurisdiction, including the federal review of the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Through its website, www.fixyouthcrime.com, the provincial Department of Justice has been collecting names on a petition to strengthen the federal act. The petition includes 17 municipalities which represent half of Nova Scotia's population.

"Nova Scotia has been committed to this since the tragic death of Theresa McEvoy and we will continue to raise outstanding issues from the Nunn Commission," said Mr. Clarke.

The key recommendation to be addressed by the federal government is to give the courts enough flexibility to detain young people before trial when their behaviour endangers themselves or the public.