Backgrounder

May 27, 2009

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The government has unveiled seven initiatives to be rolled out at the Ontario Courts of Justice in Newmarket, North York and London.  Here’s what people are saying about these initiatives, identified by people who work in the courthouses, to improve the speed and effectiveness of Ontario’s criminal justice system:

"We all have a stake in ensuring every court appearance counts.  These reforms that were developed collectively by the three local communities where they will be implemented can improve access to justice and provide better service to the people of Ontario."
– Associate Chief Justice Peter Griffiths, Ontario Court of Justice and member of the Justice on Target Expert Advisory Panel

"Finding new approaches to the way we move cases through the justice system benefits everyone, including police.  We’re pleased the government recognizes the role police have in identifying ways to speed the pace of justice, and the role we have in implementing change."
– Daniel Parkinson, President of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and member of the Justice on Target Expert Advisory Panel

"The work of the Justice on Target team will enhance the ability of all justice system partners to provide a quality service.  Everyone involved will benefit from this work."
– Ian Peer, Deputy Chief of Police, London Police Service

"The Ontario Bar Association has long supported reforms to eliminate delay in the criminal courts. Protocols on disclosure and trial timelines together with enhanced communications between Defence and Crown will help all justice participants establish clear expectations and reduce unnecessary adjournments and delays."
– Greg Goulin, Criminal lawyer and past President OBA

"Our objective should be timely and effective access to justice combined with the best possible use of tax dollars. That is what is at the heart of this collaborative process and it is at the heart of the protocols outlined here."
– Bob Ward, President and CEO of Legal Aid Ontario and member of the Justice on Target Expert Advisory Panel

"These initiatives will lead toward a justice system that better responds to the needs of victims and witnesses. These new approaches have been identified by putting the need for fair and timely justice first and foremost."
– Erin McCahery Victim/Witness Assistance Program Manager and member of the Local Leadership Team in North York 

"Now that we have reached the stage where we are ready to roll out new initiatives, the momentum for change is building. Taken together, these approaches will speed the pace of justice at this courthouse."
– Harold Dale, Assistant Crown Attorney and member of Newmarket Local Leadership Team

"I know that Correctional Services workers appreciate the opportunity to be part of the solution to building a better justice system.  We know that these changes will mean real benefits to us daily."
– Mike Conry, Director, Institutional Services, Central Region, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services and member of the Justice on Target Expert Advisory Panel

 "These are high-impact solutions that will make a real difference as we work to reduce the number of days and appearances needed to move criminal charges through our court system."
–  Lynne Wagner, Director of Court Operations for Central East Region and member of the Justice on Target Expert Advisory Panel