Dena Keh community Justice program now under way

Yukon, July 9, 1998-- The Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrew, Secretary of State for Children and Youth, on behalf of Anne McLellan, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, with Lois Moorcroft, Yukon Minister of Justice, and Anne Bayne, Chief, Liard First Nation announced today funding for the Dena Keh Justice Program. The federal and territorial governments are each providing $73,000 for 1998-99. This program provides a unique integration of traditional Aboriginal practices with criminal justice and other community services.

"Canada and the Yukon are committed to working together to improve the justice system so that it better responds to the needs and aspirations of the Liard First Nation. This is the kind of partnership envisioned in Gathering Strength -- Canada's Aboriginal Action Plan," said Secretary of State Blondin-Andrew.

Reconciliation and mediation processes with victims, offenders and their families are central to the Program. A Program Coordinator and Justice Worker, supported by elders, volunteers and service providers, work with the community on restorative justice by using pre- and post-charge diversion, sentencing recommendations and by helping offenders reintegrate into the community.

Conferences are held with victims, offenders and their families, followed by case conferences with community social service providers such as the RCMP, probation services and community counselors. The Dena Keh will also serve as a sentencing advisory body, making recommendations based on the outcome of deliberations in these conferences.

"Incorporating traditional values of the Dena Keh is key to meeting the Liard First Nation's vision for greater involvement in administering justice. Encouraging community participation and involving elders are significant steps towards making the community a safer and healthier place for families." Minister Moorcroft said.

"The Dena Keh Justice Program validates through empowerment that we are building a healthier community. It is an approach that can serve as a basis for administering justice under self-government," said Chief Bayne.

Funding for the initiative was provided for in the February 1998 budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework.

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Ref.:    Pierre Gratton               Martin Suo
         Minister's Office            Coordinator, Pacific Region
         Department of Justice        Canada Aboriginal Justice Directorate
         (613) 992-4621               (604) 775-6180

         Maureen Mahoney              Anne Bayne
         Yukon Justice                Chief, Liard First Nation
         (867) 667-8292               (867) 536-2131

         Chris Lalande
         Legislative Assistant to the Secretary of State
         (613) 992-1388