Justice Minister Brings Concerns to Vancouver

Justice Minister Ross Landry is in Vancouver, B.C. today, Oct. 13 for three days of meetings with his provincial and territorial counterparts, federal Justice Minister Rob Nicholson and Public Safety Minister Vic Toews.

"This is a great opportunity to collaborate on justice priorities that affect the entire country," said Mr. Landry. "I look forward to using this time to draw attention to important issues that directly affect Nova Scotians."

During meetings, Nova Scotia will join Manitoba and Alberta in calling for the federal government to address concerns with the proposed changes to the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

"While Nova Scotia is pleased these changes will address many long-standing issues, the province recognizes some new issues may be created," said Mr. Landry. "As a result, Nova Scotia has made submissions to the federal government in an effort to address these potential challenges."

Mr. Landry will once again offer Nova Scotia's support for developing an enhanced consultation system when making changes to Criminal Law. He will also bring forward suggestions on how to create more stringent criteria for judges when granting intermittent sentences, an issue he first brought to the table in January 2010.