News Release

Ontario To Strengthen, Improve Police Review System

New Legislation Would Provide A System That Has The Respect Of Both The Public And The Police

April 19, 2006

News

TORONTO — The McGuinty government has introduced legislation that, if passed, would create an independent civilian body to administer the police review system in Ontario, Attorney General Michael Bryant announced today.

The bill, if passed, would implement recommendations in the LeSage Report, including a new independent civilian body to administer the police review system in Ontario.

"This bill seeks to establish a police review system that has the confidence and respect of the public and the police," said Bryant. "If passed, this would provide the public with a significant new option for bringing forward their concerns, while ensuring that there is no interference with the good work done by Ontario’s police services in keeping our communities safe."

The proposed independent civilian body, led by an Independent Police Review Director, would be responsible for receiving complaints and then determining, on a case-by-case basis, who would investigate the complaint: the independent civilian body itself, the police service affected or another police service. Under the proposed Independent Police Review Act, 2006, members of the public would still be able to deal directly with their local police service, if they prefer.

In June 2004, the government appointed the former chief justice of Ontario’s Superior Court of Justice, Patrick J. LeSage, to conduct a review of Ontario’s police complaints system. After months of extensive review and consultations, LeSage submitted 27 recommendations to the attorney general, including the recommendation that a new independent civilian oversight body be created.

"I am pleased to see the government is moving forward with a proposal which would create a new independent police review body," said LeSage. "I believe this would be a very positive step forward for the police review system in Ontario."

"The new system we are proposing is based on Mr. LeSage’s thorough and well thought-out recommendations," said Bryant. "If passed, this legislation would entrench a police review system that is both equitable and effective for all."

Contacts

Greg Crone
Minister's Office
(416) 326-1785

Brendan Crawley
Communications Branch
(416) 326-2210

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