FRANCAIS

June 21, 2000

Victims of crime in Manitoba would have Canada’s first comprehensive and enforceable victims’ rights law under legislation proposed in a bill introduced today by Attorney General Gord Mackintosh.

"In Canada’s justice system, victims are too often marginalized and silenced," Mackintosh said. "A large bureaucracy has emerged to respond to crime in Canada and offenders are now entitled to extensive rights, yet the persons directly hurt by crime--the victims--are virtually ignored.

"Today's announcement re-balances the justice system and begins the process of ending the neglect of Manitoba victims by the justice system."

Mackintosh said the proposed legislation signals the beginning of a new era in criminal justice in Canada.

"We have gone beyond mere statements of principle and have established, for the first time in the country, true rights for victims of crime. This bill will fundamentally alter how the system treats victims of crime by requiring justice officials to keep victims informed and consulted as their case proceeds through the justice system."

The proposed legislation specifies the rights of victims as they deal with police, prosecutors, the courts and corrections officials. The bill would establish a process that requires police to inform victims of their rights. Victims would then be able to select the rights they wish to exercise throughout the justice process.

The bill would also require police and prosecutors to consult with victims on key issues such as bail, decisions not to proceed with a charge, plea agreements and status of the investigation and prosecution. Family survivors of homicide victims would also be eligible for compensation for counselling under the new law.

"Enhancing victims’ rights is not only about restoring faith in the way the justice system treats victims, it is also about investing in the health of families. Providing funding for counselling is one way we can help survivors deal with the profound and intense grief that arises from the loss of a loved one to violence," Mackintosh said.

In addition, Manitoba Justice has allocated $90,000 to support two full-time victim services workers who will notify victims of key events affecting their case. The victims’ services workers will help design the notification system and ensure the legislated rights are followed, Mackintosh said.

The bill would also establish an innovative new complaints process for victims who believe their rights have been violated. Manitoba Justice would have a maximum of 30 days to respond to complaints, with any extension requiring the approval of the ombudsman. The individual could also complain to the Ombudsman's Office. A new specialized crime victim investigator within the Ombudsman's Office would handle these cases.

"Since coming to government, we have worked to follow up on election promises to establish meaningful rights for victims of crime in our province. I am extremely pleased to be a part of ushering in a new era of respect for victims through our Victims’ Bill of Rights and the Child Victim Support Initiative announced earlier," Mackintosh concluded.

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