News release

Tribunal Recommends Salary, Benefits for Judges

Justice

Justice Minister Michael Baker has received a report on the recommended salary and benefits for judges. The report was provided by a three-person independent tribunal which was established under the Provincial Court Act.

A recent Supreme Court decision dictates that salary levels and benefits be recommended by an independent panel in order to respect the independence of the judiciary. The recommendations are binding.

Members of the panel were Bruce Archibald, chair, Terry Roane and Ronald Pink.

The tribunal has recommended salaries rise nine per cent to $157,000 from $144,000 on April 1. They also recommend a two per cent increase for the next two years, bringing the salary to $160,140 and $163,342 respectively. The chief judge will continue to receive an additional $10,000 per year and the associate chief judge an additional $5,000 per year.

Judges will receive increased vacation periods with five weeks upon appointment and six weeks after five years of service. In terms of mileage, judges will receive 34 cents per kilometre for the first 20,000 kilometres and 30 cents per kilometre for each kilometre thereafter. The current rate for other government employees is 31.5 cents per kilometre.

The tribunal consists of a representative of the minister, a representative of the Judges' Association and a person agreed upon by both. In making its recommendations, the tribunal must consider the following: -- constitutional law; -- the need to maintain an independent judiciary; -- the unique nature of the judges' role; -- the need to attract candidates; -- the benefits provided in other jurisdictions; -- the economic conditions of the province; -- the cost of living; -- the nature, jurisdiction and responsibility of the court; -- and any relevant submissions provided to the tribunal.