OTTAWA, November 16, 2004 – Irwin Cotler, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada today released a consultation paper aimed at improving the criminal justice system through more efficient and effective disclosure in criminal matters.

"The principle of disclosure - that an accused person has the right to the disclosure of relevant information in the possession or control of the Crown - is important to our criminal justice system. This especially presents problems in large and complex cases where the challenge of disclosing huge quantities of information can end up delaying criminal trials. Improving the disclosure process is of clear benefit to both the Crown and the defence in ensuring that justice is achieved in criminal cases," said Minister Cotler.

"This Consultation Paper seeks ways to ensure that the Charter-mandated disclosure obligation is implemented more efficiently and effectively. Making improvements in providing disclosure will help to enhance the overall operation of the criminal justice system."

The consultation paper discusses proposals for:

• facilitating electronic disclosure;
• access to disclosure materials;
• specialized court proceedings on disclosure;
• detailed disclosure-management procedures; and
• addressing improper use of disclosed materials.

The paper follows preliminary consultations that were held in March 2004 with stakeholders, including representatives from law enforcement, national legal associations and legal academics, among other groups.

Responses will be reviewed and considered in the Disclosure Reform policy development process. Those wishing to respond to the consultation paper are asked to send their comments to the Department before February 8, 2005*.

*The deadline for submitting your comments has been extended to March 8, 2005.

Backgrounder: Disclosure Reform Consultation Paper

Ref.:

Denise Rudnicki
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Justice
(613) 992-4621

Media Relations
Department of Justice Canada
(613) 957-4207