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Final Report
Alberta Summit On Justice
Final Report

Table of Contents

Appendices

Forward
When I announced plans for the Alberta Summit on Justice in January, 1998 I envisioned a process that would empower Albertans to join together to build a blueprint for improving our justice system - one that reflects their values and beliefs, and which will become a model for the next millennium. I believe the Summit on Justice was effective in helping us achieve this end.

The summit was held almost one year to the day from the date on which plans for the summit were announced. This one-year time frame gave us the ability to ensure that all Albertans had an opportunity to contribute their ideas for change through the public consultation process or the various sector consultation processes. I would like to thank all Albertans who participated in the summit in this manner. The respective consultations were critical to helping frame the issues for discussion by the summit delegates.

I would also like to thank all of the delegates who gave of their time to attend the summit in Calgary. It was a long, and at times arduous, two and a half days but it was also very rewarding. I recognize and very much appreciate the hard work and commitment that each of you contributed to making the Alberta Summit on Justice a success.

Your efforts will not be in vain. As I noted in my concluding remarks at the summit, I am committed to bringing real and meaningful change to the system. The recommendations included in this summit final report are being submitted to the government for consideration. The government response to these recommendations will be publicly released in the near future. Those recommendations that are accepted will be included for action in the business plans of the affected departments.

For me, the summit marks an important milestone in an ongoing process by which the justice system will continue to evolve to reflect the needs of Albertans.

Jon Havelock, Q.C.
Minister of Justice and Attorney General

Overview

Mandate
The Alberta Summit On Justice was called in January 1998 by Minister of Justice and Attorney General Jon Havelock, Q.C., to "build concensus on actions for improving public confidence and community participation in the justice system." The objectives were to:

  • Identify justice partners and examine and clarify their roles
  • Establish principles and values to guide all justice partners
  • Identify issues, challenges, needs, innovations and opportunities.
  • Determine ways to make the most effective and efficient use of justice system and community resources.
  • Identify and establish priorities for change and future direction.
  • Increase Albertans’ understanding of the justice system.
  • Improve cooperation and communication among justice partners and the community.

It was determined that the summit would be held January 27-29, 1999 at the University of Calgary. In addition, it was decided that:

  • The number of delegates invited to the summit would be limited to better manage and focus discussions.
  • A seven-member All-Party MLA Public Consultation Committee would be formed to gather public input and prepare a summary report.
  • Sectors with an interest in justice would be invited to conduct their own sector-specific consultations and submit their findings to the summit.

Delegates
Of the 151 delegates invited to the summit, 83 were randomly selected from across the province based on demographics such as gender, age, occupation and First Nations/Metis considerations. The other 68 were representatives from 17 sectors which have an interest in justice. The sectors included the federal government; the provincial government; local governments; First Nation Treaty areas 6, 7, and 8; the Metis Nation of Alberta; the Metis Settlements of Alberta; the legal, police and academic communities; the Legal Aid Society of Alberta; victims’ organizations; non-governmental organizations; youth; seniors and the media.

Delegates were provided with background materials before arriving at the summit. Central to this material was a delegate workbook describing Alberta’s justice system and providing facts and data concerning eight main topic areas to be discussed at the summit. In addition to background information and a number of questions to help delegates focus their thoughts, the workbook included recommendations from pre-summit public and sector briefs, reports and submissions.

Many of the justice sectors conducted extensive consultations with their membership and affiliated organizations and individuals throughout the spring and summer of 1998. The results of these consultations were submitted as briefs to the Summit on Justice and made available to all summit participants.

The All-Party MLA Public Consultation Committee held public hearings in 18 Alberta communities in May, June and September 1998. A total of 318 individuals and organizations made oral submissions to the committee and many of these were supported by written briefs. Another 250 people who did not attend the hearings sent the committee their thoughts and opinions. The committee’s report, issued in November 1998, was forwarded to all delegates.

Health, business and personal reasons prevented some delegates from attending the summit. In total, 136 people participated in the summit. A number of other people attended the summit as observers. These included provincial and federal justice department officials, Alberta MLAs, the media, and Summit Working and Steering Committee members.

Process
The facilitation model chosen for the summit allowed delegates to share their comments and views in a non-threatening environment. This was done by accepting all views as valid and encouraging open dialogue. Delegates brainstormed strengths, weaknesses, concerns and other factors before clustering this input under common concepts or ideas. Discussion of these "clusters" led to the creation of specific recommendations.

To make the process more manageable, delegates were divided into nine small discussion groups. These groups, led by two facilitators each, were asked to discuss each of eight main topics during the summit. These topics were:

  • Barriers to Accessing Justice
  • Victims - Their Rights and Their Involvement in the System
  • Youth and the Justice System
  • Policing
  • First Nations, Metis and Inuit Justice
  • Crime Prevention
  • Alternatives to Existing Justice System Processes
  • Public Confidence in the Justice System

To stimulate their thinking, delegates heard from a number of speakers throughout the summit. The opening address was given by the Honourable Jon Havelock, Q.C., followed by greetings from Christine Silverberg, Chief, Calgary Police Service. Keynote addresses were given by the Honourable Anne McLellan, Canada's Minister of Justice and Attorney General, and the Honourable Catherine Fraser, Chief Justice of Alberta. Luncheon speakers during the summit were the Honourable Lois Moorcroft, Yukon's Minister of Justice and the Honourable Vic Toews, Q.C., Manitoba's Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

The summit closed with a presentation to all delegates of the individual recommendations made by the nine small discussion groups. Time did not permit discussion of these recommendations by the entire group, but each delegate was given a list of all the recommendations before departing.

General Themes
Justice and the justice system are complex subjects that affect the lives of most Albertans. It is not surprising then that summit delegates spent a considerable amount of time sharing their thoughts on a wide range of issues. Issues of concern shared by a number of delegates became the focus for most of the group discussion. Frequently, this resulted in a recommendation or a consensus of opinion on how to make a good justice system better.

Some issues of concern raised by delegates were not discussed in-depth because of time constraints. Others did not achieve a consensus of opinion. Isolated points of view were considered but not usually discussed.

As the summit progressed, it became apparent that delegates were raising the same general issues or themes regardless of the discussion topic area. For example, the lack of knowledge among Albertans about the justice system was continually raised as a problem whether delegates were talking about victims' rights or crime prevention.

First Nation, Metis and Inuit concerns crossed all of the topic areas. First Nation, Metis and Inuit experiences often served to illustrate for delegates the impact of the present justice system on individuals, families and communities. First Nation, Metis and Inuit restorative community-based approaches in areas like offender rehabilitation and local delivery of justice services were valued by delegates as models upon which the justice system could build for the benefit of all sectors of society.

The following general themes identify where summit delegates believe adjustments are needed most in Alberta's justice system.

Improve Public Knowledge,
Education and Awareness
A lack of knowledge, education and awareness among Albertans about the justice system was seen as a major barrier to improving the system. Poor knowledge was viewed as a chronic, fundamental weakness in the ability of Albertans to easily access and navigate the criminal and civil justice systems. Most delegates felt improving knowledge and understanding of the system would eliminate a lot of frustration, fear and conflict.

Delegates wished to see a systematic approach to raising knowledge and awareness among Albertans. Many of the discussion groups called for justice education to be introduced into the schools as a curriculum item at various grade levels. For adults, there was support for extensive public education through information and media campaigns, continuing education programs and other approaches.

Summit participants felt the onus to improve justice communication, information and awareness was not limited to government. Those who work within the justice system, the media and educators were seen to have a shared responsibility in educating Albertans.

Simplify the Justice System
The public's general lack of knowledge concerning Alberta's justice system is compounded by complex legal language and procedures, according to most summit participants. This complexity was seen to intimidate citizens, discourage access, create delays and restrict movement through the system to legal specialists. Delegates noted that these restrictions ultimately lead to some citizens being denied justice.

Most delegates believe the system can and should be simplified to remove language and procedural barriers. Delegates supported the use of plain language in all justice system documents and user-friendly processes that place the citizen's need first. Many delegates saw simplifying language and legal proceedings as a way of improving the speed of justice. They also felt it was a fundamental step toward increasing knowledge and public confidence in the justice system.

Increase Sensitivity and Cultural Awareness
Delegates expressed concern that the justice system oftens lacks sensitivity toward those who try to access the system or who are involved as victims, offenders or community members. Delegates believed this was particularly true for Aboriginal people and visible minorities. Many of the groups noted that judges, lawyers, police, correctional officers and other key players in the justice system must have an appreciation of the cultural and social values of the people they encounter to do their jobs properly. Most delegates believed there is a sensitivity and cultural awareness gap within the current justice system - a gap that needs to be filled if the satisfaction of individuals who encounter the system is to improve.

Comprehensive cross-cultural training was seen as an effective means of educating judges and justice-system workers about Alberta's cultural diversity. In particular, delegates emphasized the need to raise awareness of and become more sensitive to Aboriginal cultures.

Another effective strategy that delegates suggested was ensuring the demographic mix of people working in the justice system matches the composition of the local community. Most delegates felt this balanced representation did not currently exist, but cautioned that increased diversity should not be achieved by lowering professional standards.

Alberta Justice was also encouraged to continue to seek out people from various cultural communities and support groups to act as resource people to the justice system. Examples include elders from Aboriginal communities or individuals involved in counselling victims of crime.

Enhance Community Partnerships
Most of the delegates at the summit were encouraged by efforts in recent years to involve communities and non-professionals in planning and delivering of justice services. Community policing, Youth and Adult Justice Committees, Aboriginal elder programs, and other measures were seen as positive complements to more traditional elements of the justice system.

For the most part, delegates believed the justice system has been improved by these measures, because they have brought the system closer to the community. Individuals and communities have become more active players in the justice system and, in so doing, have taken more responsibility and interest in justice issues. Many delegates believe it has also contributed to greater sensitivity on the part of law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and governments toward local needs and desires.

While delegates recognized that the justice system was evolving toward a more community-based focus, most agreed this evolution needs to be fostered and encouraged. Community partnerships, and, where possible, community ownership and delivery of justice services were seen as important avenues toward creating a system that is an integrated part of community life. For example, some current justice programs and services that involve Aboriginal people are operated by Aboriginal groups within local Aboriginal communities. Seeking and developing these community-involvement options was not seen by delegates as the responsibility of any one organization. It was considered as the mandate of all players in Alberta's justice system.

Increase the Role of Victims and Offenders
There was general dissatisfaction among delegates with the way victims and offenders are treated by the justice system. The key concern lay with the failure of the current system, for the most part, to involve victims, offenders and others impacted by crime in determining justice.

In criminal cases, delegates noted the role of victims is still largely limited to that of witness. Compensation programs, impact statements and other victim recognition strategies give victims more presence in the justice system, but do not allow for healing to occur between victim, offender and others impacted by crime. These strategies also fall short of giving victims the same status as accused persons and offenders.

Most delegates believe Alberta's justice system must move to a more restorative approach that would focus equally on rehabilitation and treatment for victims, offenders, family members, and others in the community. Similarly, mutual dispute resolution for civil law matters was considered preferable to a unilateral court decision by a judge.

Delegates acknowledged that prison sentences for certain types of crime are an effective and necessary option. However, most supported the use of police diversion, alternative measures or restitution programs in dealing with minor or non-violent crimes - particularly for youth and first- time offenders. For those in prison, delegates saw value in programs which make offenders accountable to victims and their local community and offer offenders, when appropriate and agreeable to the victims, the opportunity to reconcile with people they have harmed.

Clarify Accountability
Accountability to the community for decisions and actions that impact the justice system was an overall concern for delegates. Generally, accountability within the current system was seen to be either unclear or misunderstood. Sentencing and parole practices, legal jurisdiction, judicial decisions, treatment of victims, and police discipline were some areas mentioned by delegates where accountability was confusing or was not transparent to the public-at-large.

In the case of offenders, delegates felt accountability was misdirected. For example, under current law, offenders answer to the Crown for their actions. Many delegates believed offenders should be held directly accountable to the community and individuals who were hurt by their crime. Delegates acknowledged that programs like alternative measures and sentencing that involves community service and restitution recognize this accountability. However, they felt more could and should be done to bring offenders face-to-face with the impact of their actions.

Delegates also felt governments need to be more accountable to the public for justice policies, laws and regulations. Jurisdiction for Aboriginal justice matters was offered by some delegates as an illustration of how confusion over accountability can handicap efforts to improve the justice system. Alberta Justice was encouraged to take a leadership role in better defining justice system roles and responsibilities and in acting as an accountability role model for other justice sector organizations. Delegates suggested this process could begin immediately by communicating openly and frequently to delegates and others on the progress of implementing Alberta Summit on Justice recommendations.

Take Action on Previous
Studies and Reports on Justice
There was concern among many delegat es that recommendations contained in a number of previous studies and reports concerning Aboriginal and other justice issues have not been acted upon. It was felt that many of the issues being discussed at the summit had already been publicly debated, studied by experts or formerly reviewed. Many delegates believed the conclusions of major reviews in recent years, such as the Cawsey Report, were still valid and should be acted upon.

For the most part, it was unclear to delegates which recommendations from previous justice reports had been implemented. It was noted that this lack of awareness contributes to public cynicism about the value of public or stakeholder input to justice reviews and studies. It also undermines public confidence that government and those who work within the justice system are truly interested in making a "good justice system better."

There was general support for government to revisit these previous reports, review their recommendations and let the public know what recommendations have been or will be implemented. This process should also be followed for the Summit on Justice.

Increase Funding
Delegates believed funding was a key element in improving the justice system's accessibility, quality and service. Many of the concerns expressed about the justice system were linked to a lack of funding. Most delegates believed significant improvements could not be made without more money and human resources, particularly in the area of legal aid, judges and court workers, and community services.

While there was a recognition that government resources are limited, delegates felt new or enhanced programs and services could not be offered without a commitment of additional resources. A reallocation of funds within the justice system was not seen as a viable alternative because delegates believe the system is already maximizing its resources. Delegates concluded that a reallocation of funds would likely result in one area of justice benefiting at the expense of another.

Core Recommendations
Discussion regarding the eight main topic areas generated a great number of concerns, opinions and suggestions from delegates. The process of collecting input and searching for common ground led each group to conclude that changes were needed to make Alberta's justice system better. These changes were expressed as recommendations, and in total, the nine discussion groups made 519 individual recommendations.

While all of the recommendations are considered valid for the Government of Alberta's consideration, time did not allow summit delegates to collectively consider, consolidate and rank recommendations.

It is apparent that many individual recommendations are unique to one or two groups. A number of others did not achieve consensus within a discussion group. But many of the recommendations are similar in language or intent. Brought together and expressed as core recommendations, they can be considered as the majority view of delegates who attended the summit.

In the general themes section of this report, it was noted that several issues were common to all topics discussed. This was also the case for many of the individual recommendations. For example, dozens of recommendations made by the nine small groups related to increased funding for various sectors of the justice system. The following list consolidates this overarching conclusion under one recommendation.

While the core recommendations speak to specific justice issues, they apply to many, and in some cases, all of the topic areas discussed at the summit. For this reason, these recommendations have not been categorized. Instead, they are presented as system-wide suggestions for change put forward by delegates.

Please note : The following core recommendations are numbered for reference purposes only. Numbers do not indicate priority of importance.

  1. That more information and awareness about Alberta's justice system be provided to young people through the school system and to adults through public education and awareness.
  2. That the justice system be made more sensitive to family, gender and cultural issues by providing increased education and training to judges, lawyers and others who play key roles in the administration of justice.
  3. That the language, procedures, and accessibility of the justice system be simplified, made more user friendly, and made easier to understand.
  4. That more Albertans be given access to legal aid.
  5. That more funding be provided to all areas of the justice system including police, judicial, court and victim services; Aboriginal programs; early intervention and crime prevention; and other community-based programs.
  6. That the use of justice alternatives to the traditional court system, such as police diversion, mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution, and restorative justice be encouraged and expanded.
  7. That the rights of victims be clearly defined so victims may gain a more meaningful role in the entire justice process and achieve equal status with accused persons and offenders. Special attention and protection needs to be given to victims who are children.
  8. That the amount and eligibility for victims' compensation and restitution, directly from offenders and through programs like the Victims of Crime Financial Benefits Program, be increased.
  9. That victims receive education, counselling, assistance and advocacy support in their efforts to become more involved in all aspects of the justice system.
  10. That the appropriate use of victim impact statements be encouraged in the sentencing process.
  11. That judges and criminal justice system workers receive education and training to become more sensitized to victims' issues, concerns and needs.
  12. That more justice strategies and resources be devoted to community-based early childhood intervention, education and prevention programs as a means of reducing criminal behaviour among young people and adults.
  13. That justice involving youth offenders focus on responsibility and accountability. This means using diversion and restorative measures where appropriate and ensuring violent and repeat offenders receive sentences that match the seriousness of their crimes.
  14. That communities, families and young people be supported in their efforts to deal with youth crime and the rehabilitation of young offenders within their communities.
  15. That police services work more closely with communities in identifying, policing and preventing criminal behaviour.
  16. That Aboriginal police services receive the same training and resources as other police services in Alberta.
  17. That the recruitment and training of police officers, judges and other court system workers reflect the cultural and social diversity of the communities they serve.
  18. That there be more community involvement in the review of complaints against the police and in disciplinary decisions concerning inappropriate police behaviour.
  19. That recommendations contained in previous studies and reports on Aboriginal justice issues, such as the Cawsey Report and the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, be reviewed and implemented.
  20. That Aboriginal people be given more control over justice processes and programs that affect them with a view to establishing a separate justice system administered by, and for, Aboriginal people.
  21. That more information, education and training be provided to police officers, judges, justice system workers, and the public on Aboriginal cultures, values and justice issues.
  22. That measures to prevent crime through early intervention and social development be strengthened.
  23. That the justice system encourage communities to work in partnership with it to develop and implement crime prevention strategies.
  24. That a public input process for the justice system be established to foster ongoing communication and information-sharing.
  25. That Alberta Justice take action on the summit's recommendations and report the results to summit participants and the public.

Small Group Recommendations
The Alberta Summit on Justice's nine discussion groups made a total of 519
recommendations. The recommendations were developed within each of eight main topic areas. Some of the recommendations made within a group did not achieve consensus. This has been noted next to the recommendation.

Please note: The recommendations are numbered for reference purposes only. Numbers do not indicate priority of importance.

Barriers to Accessing Justice
We recommend that:

  1. The justice system be more culturally sensitive but not at the expense of the rule of law.
  2. Formal and informal measures be used to enhance Albertans' understanding of their justice system, its function and the resources available to them.
  3. The justice system consult with the public on a regular basis.
  4. The system embrace diversion as an alternative to the formal justice system in mitigating circumstances.
  5. Solutions to accessibility be community based.
  6. A committee be established to review, implement and monitor the recommendations of this summit and give a formal report in one year.
  7. Justice initiatives be developed to allow for mediation and alternatives to incarceration.
  8. Increased funding be provided to the justice system.
  9. Legal aid financial guidelines be reviewed to allow for an increase in limits.
  10. A single entry point for legal assistance be established.
  11. No-fault insurance be implemented.
  12. Small claims court be increased to $10,000.
  13. Education and training programs, such as cross-cultural awareness, be implemented for judges and Crown prosecutors.
  14. The justice system be personalized through direct contact.
  15. More education be provided to Albertans on the justice system.
  16. Procedures be simplified and put into plain language whenever possible.
  17. Guidelines be developed for each aspect of the process and the time that process should take.
  18. Access to alternative solutions be increased.
  19. The laws and courts be consolidated so that jurisdictions are simpler.
  20. Technology be used in the justice system to increase accessibility and awareness.
  21. An increase and restructuring of community programs be done to make resources useful to participants in the justice system and the community in general.
  22. Justice education be provided for all Albertans and that:
    • Resources be provided to educators to develop a curriculum.
    • Justice education be a mandatory subject for all K-12 grades in Alberta.
    • Resources be made available to inform or educate all Albertans regarding Alberta justice.
  23. Financial resources be committed to justice, in both urban and remote areas.
  24. The justice system:
    • Reflect the diversity of the community in which it operates.
    • Reflect, through societal laws, the needs and interest of all sectors and communities.
  25. Implementation of cross-cultural training be adopted with the goal of eliminating systemic injustice.
  26. Within six months, there be development and implementation of a specific action plan based on input collected during the summit process on alternatives to dispute resolution.
  27. The justice process and procedures be simplified by using plain language and re-creating a user-friendly and less intimidating environment.
  28. The justice system take a leadership role in ensuring an integrated system that provides simplified, seamless access to services.
  29. The justice system take a leadership role in providing increased funding for the entire system.
  30. The justice system take a leadership role in developing an education system for schools and the public with sufficient funding .
  31. The justice system take a leadership role in developing specialized courts and specialized training for court personnel.
  32. The justice system take a leadership role in revamping/reviewing and being open to change of the criminal justice system on a continuous basis.
  33. The justice system take a leadership role in simplifying and defining the processes of justice.
  34. The justice system take a leadership role in recruiting into the system persons of diverse cultural and linguistic alternatives.
  35. The justice system take a leadership role in ensuring victims and their rights be served by the justice system and that these rights be legislated.
  36. The justice system enhance local delivery.
  37. The justice system provide more money.
  38. The justice system have flexible operations while respecting fundamental principles.
  39. There be ongoing public education, knowledge and awareness.
  40. The justice system use alternative delivery systems.
  41. There be increased in-house training and sensitivity.
  42. The province provide legal counsel to anyone that requests it.
  43. The province enhance the delivery of a comprehensive education curriculum in schools, including but not limited to alternative dispute resolution, knowledge about the criminal justice system, the development of the law, the role of the police, etc. Further, we recommend the media become better educated about the criminal justice system and that they assume a larger role in informing and educating the public.
  44. The province foster an ongoing consultative process with the public and affected groups on legislative matters and issues of law.
  45. The province provide education at all levels of the justice system on different cultures, victimization, domestic violence, poverty, and other social issues that have an impact on the criminal justice system.
  46. The justice system be simplified.
  47. Youth and family crime prevention emphasize early intervention and social development.
  48. There be increased utilization of restorative justice initiatives, both pre-charge and post-charge, where victims agree.
  49. The creation of a broadly based task force to deal with public education and access to the justice system, including a terms of reference that involves all stakeholders.
  50. There be increased funding for all components of the justice system to meet identified needs, streamline the process, deliver programs and monitor outcomes.
  51. The court system be more user friendly.
  52. Jurisdictions clarify, define, and liaise with each other (especially in family/criminal court).
  53. The legal language be simplified.
  54. Legal aid be restructured to improve accessibility and quality.
  55. Court processes be simplified while making court more people-sensitive.
  56. Supportive counselling and interpretative services be available to all in order to increase the public's understanding throughout the court process.
  57. Resources for victims be increased.
  58. There be increased use of alternative and diversionary measures for less serious crimes.
  59. There be increased awareness of the justice system through mandatory education in the school system and ongoing public education.
  60. There be ongoing mandatory training in cultural, social, mental health and victim issues for judges, Crown prosecutors and others involved in the court system.
  61. There be increased use of independent experts by the court to increase their awareness of the social issues before them.
  62. There be an increased presence of Metis and First Nations on the bench, among Crown prosecutors, and in the court system.

Victims - Their Rights and
Their Involvement in the System
We recommend that:

  1. The rights of the victim be balanced with the rights of the accused.
  2. Crime compensation programs be reviewed and expanded.
  3. Victim impact statements continue to be an important part of the justice system.
  4. Accessibility to the justice process for victims be increased.
  5. The victim receive restitution from the offender.
  6. More resources for victims' healing be developed and readily available.
  7. There be more sensitivity toward children who have been victimized.
  8. The system be designed to avoid re-victimization.
  9. Victim impact statements affect sentencing. (no consensus)
  10. The well-being and protection of victims be a priority.
  11. Restorative justice initiatives be introduced.
  12. Alberta Justice accept diversion alternatives.
  13. Victims not be forced to participate in Aboriginal sentencing circles.
  14. Victims have the right to be more involved in punishment decisions.
  15. Victims' rights be clearly defined and victims be given equal status with all other participants in the court process.
  16. Where applicable, restitution be a major, required component in all sentencing.
  17. Victims appearing as witnesses be entitled to legal counsel.
  18. The justice system value the input of victims into the investigative and court process and provide victims with the right to confront the offender.
  19. An agency be created to quickly advise victims of their recourse and resources in a comfortable and safe environment.
  20. Victim services be provided in more areas.
  21. Victims be educated as to how they can prevent being re-offended against by a criminal and re-victimized by the judicial system.
  22. Persons who commit "victim scams" be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
  23. Victims be given more access and involvement in the criminal process.
  24. A guaranteed Victims' Bill of Rights be developed.
  25. Victims be involved in the sentencing process with the inclusion of a restorative system.
  26. Victims be respected and supported throughout the justice process and not re-victimized. Special consideration should be given to children who are involved as victims.
  27. Alberta continue to encourage the appropriate and responsible use of victim impact statements.
  28. Additional resources be made available for services for all victims.
  29. Victim involvement be continued throughout the entire process.
  30. Alberta Justice establish a Victim Advocate office that reports to the Alberta Legislature.
  31. The justice system further define victims' rights and enshrine them in legislation.
  32. The justice system develop effective victims assistance and rehabilitation programs across the province.
  33. The justice system provide victimology professional development programs for justice personnel.
  34. The justice system ensure adequate funding for victim services throughout Alberta and ensure fees/surcharges are implemented.
  35. The justice system improve the Crime Compensation Board to ensure speedy delivery of services and dignity for all victims.
  36. The justice system encourage the unity/oneness of all people.
  37. Additional resources be allocated to optimize the implementation of victims' rights.
  38. Training be implemented to create sensitivity for victims' concerns.
  39. Victim advocacy and the respect and privacy of victims be promoted.
  40. Penalties, rights, and compensation be recognized in legislation (Canadian Charter and the Victims of Crime Act).
  41. Victims be protected from offenders.
  42. Ongoing training and education be provided for criminal justice personnel in the area of victimization.
  43. There be increased use of alternate dispute resolution mechanisms to more adequately include the victim in the process.
  44. There be increased support for victims at all stages of the criminal justice system process including:
    • Consistent application and collection of fine surcharges.
    • Consistent use of, and respect for, victim impact statements.
    • Ongoing funding for victims' assistance groups and programs.
    • Victim initiated notification of offender status.
  45. Trials be expedited in a timely fashion to avoid inordinate delays for the victim.
  46. Federal and provincial governments take steps to make the justice system more sensitive to the needs of child victims and witnesses.
  47. The justice department fund the creation and operation of a victim information phone line designed to ensure the program is serving the needs of the victims.
  48. The justice system ensure victim impact statements will not be disclosed to the defence before conviction.
  49. In order to establish a sustained, consistent continuum of services for victims, ongoing stable and adequate base funding be provided to victims' services.
  50. Victim impact statements be reviewed in consultation with victims' organizations to ensure the program is serving the interests of the victim.
  51. The justice system ensure the victim impact statement is not disclosed to the defence before conviction.
  52. Victims be allowed to update victim impact statements for release/parole hearings.
  53. Victims be given the ability to deliver written, oral or videotaped statements.
  54. Victim impact statements be standardized and consistent regardless of the process (i.e. sentencing, release, etc.).
  55. It be mandatory to consider and evaluate victim safety in all bail/release decisions.
  56. There be more extensive research, training, and education on victims' issues for all service providers involved in the justice and health systems.
  57. In order to make involvement more satisfying and meaningful to victims, a task force involving justice, Crown prosecutors, service providers, victim supporters, and victims be created to develop meaningful strategies that make concrete improvements to the provincial justice system.
  58. The maximum number of dollars that can be given to victims from the Victims of Crime Fund be increased.
  59. Victims be advised of their rights and provided information on their case throughout the whole process.
  60. There be increased monetary compensation for the victim, if possible, by the perpetrator.
  61. Victims be allowed, if they desire, to play a role in sentencing.
  62. Justice continue to develop victim programs and keep victim issues a priority.
  63. Special procedures be developed to protect and be more sensitive to child victims and witnesses.
  64. Judges and Crown prosecutors take mandatory training to become more sensitive and responsive to emotional and other needs of victims.
  65. The Victims Advocate Office be funded from fine surcharges to obtain compensation from perpetrators.
  66. The justice system review the impact of sexual and family abuse upon victims.

Youth and the Justice System
We recommend that:

  1. The public be provided with statistics and factual information about the youth justice system.
  2. Justice strategies be developed that focus on early intervention and prevention programs.
  3. Restorative justice be implemented throughout the youth justice system.
  4. The allocation of funds and human resources reflect in-depth planning that addresses community, rural, and urban needs.
  5. Responses to youth crime reflect the shared responsibility of government and the community.
  6. The system become less punitive. (no consensus)
  7. Youth and families become more accountable to the public. (no consensus)
  8. There be more open custody.
  9. There be more meaningful alternative measure programs within the Young Offenders Act.
  10. Solutions and measures be family focused.
  11. Harsher incarceration sentences to suit the crime be used as a last resort. (no consensus)
  12. There be meaningful integration of youth in the community.
  13. More funding be given to communities for youth programs, services and education.
  14. Offenders be held accountable to victims and the community through restitution, public awareness and alternative methods of resolution.
  15. Conditions of court orders be enforced strictly and publicly directed.
  16. Sentencing reflect the crime and include jail, restitution, community involvement, etc.
  17. Sentencing be strictly and consistently applied in accordance with the Young Offenders Act.
  18. Intensive rehabilitative and training programs be implemented for lesser offences to facilitate rehabilitation.
  19. The age limit of a young offender be lowered.
  20. The young offender system be more open to the public and that more education be provided concerning that system.
  21. There be more accountability and education toward deterrence for youth, families, and the community.
  22. Alberta Justice develop a plan to provide timely and accurate information to the media.
  23. The media not sensationalize crime as a selling feature.
  24. The media not promote the criminal behaviour of youth.
  25. Both levels of government (federal and provincial) work together to resolve jurisdictional issues in the Young Offenders Act.
  26. Wherever possible, restorative alternatives such as a youth justice committee be utilized and resourced.
  27. There be partnerships between corporate Alberta and the justice system to provide opportunities for youth in trouble.
  28. There be progressive sentencing for repeat/chronic offenders.
  29. There be consistency in sentencing.
  30. There be a community approach to discipline.
  31. There be community responsibility for prevention.
  32. The disparity between the treatment of Aboriginal youth and non-Aboriginal youth be eliminated.
  33. The justice system address and consider socio-economic conditions as they relate to all young offenders.
  34. A system of after-care programs be implemented at the community level.
  35. Children are our future and the environment in which they live is critical to their development as healthy, well-balanced, contributing members of society. In recognition of this environment, we recommend the Government of Alberta develop an inter-departmental strategy targeting the youth of the province.
  36. The justice system take a leadership role in making a comprehensive commitment to prevention and early intervention with follow-up.
  37. The justice system take a leadership role in creating community and youth partnerships to seek solutions.
  38. The justice system take a leadership role in providing education to enhance parenting skills and community values.
  39. The justice system take a leadership role in ensuring appropriate sentencing that focuses on responsibility and accountability.
  40. The justice system take a leadership role in dispelling the myths around youth.
  41. The justice system have youth involvement in counselling and restorative solutions.
  42. The justice system promote early intervention.
  43. The justice system use appropriate sentencing.
  44. The justice system have citizenship education and responsibilities.
  45. The justice system utilize victim input.
  46. The justice system provide more money.
  47. The use of alternative measures be expanded in response to youth crime including victim-offender mediation, community conferencing, police cautioning, and youth justice committees.
  48. Parents be held accountable for the behaviour of their children and that they be included in the sentencing process.
  49. Youth at risk be identified and that appropriate and dependable levels of funding be provided for early social intervention strategies (e.g. Head Start programs, pre-natal care, etc.).
  50. Custodial sentences be reserved for only the most serious offences and that the punishment fit the crime.
  51. There be a lower minimum age under the Young Offenders Act.
  52. Increased authority be given to teachers and parents to deal with behavioural problems.
  53. The justice system publish the names of repeat offenders who have been convicted. (no consensus)
  54. To engender respect in the system, the Young Offenders Act needs to be consistently enforced, strengthened and amended to deal adequately with repeat offenders and violent/chronic young offenders under and over the age of 12.
  55. The Alberta government, in collaboration with the private sector, organize and fund a province-wide community program on:
    • The role of alcohol and drugs in crime.
    • The resources available in preventative and rehabilitation programs.
    • The importance of early intervention and social development for children.
  56. The Young Offenders Act simplify the process of transferring youth to adult court for serious and chronic offenders.
  57. The justice system encourage communities and families to work together to instill values of caring and responsibility in youth.
  58. The Alberta government consider developing legislation to enable the civil liability of parents for actions of their children in relation to victims of crime. (no consensus)
  59. A two-tiered system be developed for young offenders to address serious and repeat offenders.
  60. Appropriate punishment be administered to reflect the crime.
  61. Governments show the political will to address and finance young offender issues (stop being "penny wise and pound foolish").
  62. Parents be made more accountable in the young offender judicial process.
  63. There be funding for educational and support programs for Metis and Aboriginal youth for rehabilitation and culturally sensitive alternative measures.
  64. Government take a holistic approach to young offenders.
  65. There be increased diversion of less serious young offenders from the court system and increased integration of community-based support services for young offenders and families.
  66. There be increased authority for teachers and parents to deal with behavioural problems.

Policing
We recommend that:

  1. Police forces reflect the composition of the community they serve while maintaining professional recruitment standards.
  2. Existing task force recommendations regarding policing be acted upon.
  3. The police review and oversight process require community ownership.
  4. There be more funding for community policing.
  5. The police focus on protection rather than revenue generation.
  6. The existing system, while good, be improved.
  7. An Aboriginal advocate be established.
  8. There be respect for Treaty 7.
  9. There be more funding for police services. (no consensus)
  10. A monitoring committee be established to deal with an allegation of abuse involving a police officer.
  11. More thought be given to the recruitment of officers.
  12. Police become more integrally involved in the community.
  13. There be more diversity awareness training for police officers.
  14. There be more coordination between the community, the court system and the police.
  15. The traffic policy regulations and RCMP- Municipal Agreement be reviewed.
  16. All treaties in Alberta be respected.
  17. The Metis Nation in Alberta be respected.
  18. There be more and better training for all police forces, including people skills and cross-cultural training.
  19. More funding and resources per officer be made available equally to all police forces (i.e. First Nations, RCMP, municipal police be treated equally).
  20. Jurisdictional disputes be reduced through effective integration and cooperation between police services.
  21. The community be directly involved in the conduct of police agencies and in guiding police discretion concerning whether or not a charge is laid.
  22. There be more police involvement in the community through neighborhood police offices in order to strengthen community programs like Neighborhood Watch and Crimestoppers.
  23. Police forces continue to reflect society's multicultural elements.
  24. Police officers be provided with the means to do more policing and less administration.
  25. Police recruit candidates be given equal consideration within each police force.
  26. Funding be increased to provide adequate community involvement.
  27. Ongoing training be provided to the police concerning community needs and ethnic diversity.
  28. An increase in community involvement and that a rapport with media and educational institutions be established.
  29. Hiring be based on merit with greater attention given to psychological factors.
  30. Increased expectations in policing standards be compensated accordingly.
  31. Policies on the use of force be consistent from area to area and that the public be aware of these policies.
  32. Efforts be made to encourage the police to become true community members, while remaining effective law enforcement officers.
  33. Alberta Justice develop a 1-800 number complaint line that is independent of police services.
  34. The use of force be recorded and reported.
  35. The justice system take a leadership role in increasing the level of service to ensure that community policing occurs in Alberta.
  36. The justice system take a leadership role in providing comprehensive, ongoing and diverse training.
  37. The justice system take a leadership role in providing improved training and support to Aboriginal police forces to ensure their success.
  38. The justice system take a leadership role in using technology and the Management Information System to remain current in police practices.
  39. The justice system take a leadership role in increasing financial and training support to, and the continued development of, victim services.
  40. Resources be provided to meet evolving demands (e.g. technology, organized crime and drugs).
  41. Improved, standardized training be implemented.
  42. The law be consistently applied.
  43. Police auxiliary programs be developed to address minor crimes.
  44. Interagency cooperation and communication be improved.
  45. There be enhanced sensitivity to Aboriginal issues.
  46. There be increased recruitment of visible minorities in all federal, provincial and municipal police forces.
  47. There be increased and equitable funding for First Nations police services.
  48. An independent and external public complaints review body be established.
  49. There be improved and comprehensive training and educational programs for all federal, provincial and municipal and First Nations police services. This would include improved training on cross-cultural and gender issues.
  50. There be an increased use of community-based policing strategies by all federal, provincial and municipal police forces.
  51. To make more efficient use of police time, that the defence bar be encouraged to advise the Crown prior to trial when the evidence of Crown witnesses can be admitted without testifying.
  52. Aboriginal police services receive the same training and funding as non-Aboriginal police services who are performing the same function.
  53. More people with Aboriginal and minority backgrounds be put on non-Aboriginal police forces.
  54. There be more community policing programs in order to jointly identify and solve community problems at the community level.
  55. There be more funding to prevent reductions in staffing levels.
  56. The Alberta government actively recruit, compensate, and take other measures to retain increased numbers of qualified Crown counsel to support the investigative work of the police.
  57. There be adequate, ongoing emphasis on communication skills training in order to improve relations.
  58. To improve community relations and encourage social stability, there be more varied career options for police officers.
  59. Government continue to develop First Nations police services.
  60. The justice system properly fund First Nations police services to ensure proper training and equipment.
  61. More Aboriginal and Metis people be recruited for mainstream police services.
  62. More female officers be recruited.
  63. More funding be allocated for recruitment, training and equipment.
  64. Police services continue with their cultural, social, conflict resolution, sensitivity training, and police accountability.
  65. Police funding come from general revenue and not from police-generated revenue.
  66. There be more police visibility and community interaction.

First Nations, Metis and Inuit Justice
We recommend that:

  1. Action be taken to address reports already generated with the view of accepting or rejecting their recommendations.
  2. With regard to reports already generated, there be government accountability for money spent and issues not addressed.
  3. The Metis Nation of Alberta recommendations be supported, namely that:
    • A community-based model to deliver justice programs and services be developed.
    • Justice stakeholders acknowledge and recognize Metis specific initiatives.
    • Alberta Justice provide financial assistance to the Metis Nation of Alberta and Metis communities in the area of capacity building in order to be competitive for contractual agreements for justice programs and services within the respective levels of governments.
    • The Provincial Metis Justice Committee and Tripartite Process Agreement Justice Initiatives Unit be maintained and operated to assist in community-based justice programs and service development.
    • A process be initiated that will enable the Metis Nation of Alberta and Metis communities the "buy-in" or capacity to develop and manage community-based, integrated service delivery models.
    • As an alternative relating to civil matters or disputes within the Metis Nation of Alberta, the Metis Judiciary Council be empowered, operated and recognized by Alberta Justice as an alternative (in-house matters) to the courts, within the guidelines established by the Metis Nation of Alberta.
  4. Equitable funding be provided to all police services across Alberta.
  5. The following Metis Settlements of Alberta recommendations be supported:
    • Increase Metis representation in all aspects of justice administration including parole boards, correctional services, and court services.
    • Allocate funding through the Aboriginal Justice Initiatives Unit to better enable settlements to access federal justice initiatives.
    • Increase funding for community-based diversion initiatives and prevention/education programs.
    • Fund youth justice committees and healing circles.
    • Support the creation of a family intervention/mediation unit for the settlements.
    • Provide rehabilitation and support programs that are geared specifically toward Metis incarcerated in provincial jails.
    • Simplify the court process and make the courtroom a less intimidating place.
    • Promote cross-cultural training of judges, lawyers, clerks, police, and all those involved in the administration of justice (including teachers and professors).
    • Increase funding for Native alcohol and addiction treatment programs.
    • Establish on-settlement group homes for settlement youth.
    • Build healing centres and family wellness centres on the settlements.
  6. The following Aboriginal Mini-Summit on Justice recommendations be supported:
    • A commitment from all levels of government is needed.
    • Stop building prisons, invest in alternatives.
    • Increase Aboriginal involvement in all areas of the justice system including police, courts, legislation.
    • Take action in regard to reports (i.e. Cawsey, Kirby, Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples).
    • Increase funding for Aboriginal justice programming.
    • Implement a process to monitor the progress of First Nations, Metis and Inuit justice issues.
    • Increase education and awareness on the part of government and Aboriginal people.
    • Identify specific programming and servicing dollars for Aboriginal peoples.
    • Expand the current system (i.e. Metis Settlements Tribunal, Metis Nation of Alberta Judiciary Council).
    • Monitor implementation of services to Aboriginal people.
    • Increase government feedback.
    • Continue to have involvement with communities.
    • Include Metis Nation of Alberta, Metis Settlements General Council, and other affected organizations in high level talks such as First Ministers' meeting on justice and social union matters.
  7. A justice conference devoted entirely to the concerns of the Treaty 8 First Nations be held.
  8. The Treaty 6 First Nations of Alberta recommendations be supported, namely:
    • The focus of First Nations community corrections be First Nations community-based and be consistent with the Alberta Minister of Justice's speech at the First Nations Justice Conference, as follows: "In conclusion, we will continue to implement a community-based approach to the delivery of Aboriginal justice programs." As well, programming to be directly accountable to the people/community being serviced.
    • The Correctional Services Division review its contracts with non-community leased Aboriginal service agencies and transfer program responsibilities, directly to those communities interested in delivering programs, on a priority basis - for example, the criminal and family courtworker contracts.
    • Development of community-based First Nations community corrections initiatives to be a priority for the Alberta Department of Justice and be consistent with the Alberta Minister of Justice's speech at First Nations Justice Conference, as follows: "And with respect to actual community-based programs, you have my commitment that the department will expedite the transfer of existing programs and resources to the First Nations in such areas as community corrections, probation and the courtworker programs. This is a reversal of the trend in recent years where the transfer of such new programs to your communities has slowed considerably."
    • Existing First Nation community corrections agreements to be upgraded to reflect those components originally identified as essential to the successful implementation of such initiatives. Such components include:
    - Probation Program, both adult and young offender.
    - Criminal Courtworker Program.
    - Elders Program.
    - Crime Prevention Program.
    - Supervision/management structure.
    Such agreements to also be expanded to include the Family Courtworker Program and youth workers.
    • The development of restorative justice initiatives through consultations with First Nations, and to include:
    - Community-based peacemaker/mediator programs.
    - Established Treaty-based youth and adult healing facilities to reflect First Nations differences (diversities).
    - Community-based diversion programs.

    The Treaty 6 First Nations further recommend for institutional correctional services that:
    • The province transfer, on a priority basis, the Footner Lake Correctional Camp, Westcastle Camp, and Medicine Lodge Correctional Camp to interested First Nations.
    • The province discuss the joint administration of the Edmonton Young Offender Centre with First Nations.
    • Alberta Justice review its adult and young offender institutional classification system and First Nations be fully involved in that review.
    • A review of the native program coordinators and institutional elders programs be undertaken jointly with First Nations.

    In general, the Treaty 6 First Nations recommend:
    • The Minister of Justice establish the development and upgrade of First Nations community-based correctional initiatives as a priority for the Alberta Department of Justice.
    • The provincial government dedicate new resources specifically to First Nations justice initiatives.
    • The Alberta Department of Justice establish First Nations justice as a priority area.
    • Development of concrete and specific First Nations justice performance indicators through consultation with First Nations.
    • A First Nations Justice Unit be identified as a distinct and separate area within the Alberta Department of Justice, reporting to the Alberta Deputy Minister of Justice.
    • That within the Department of Justice, there be First Nations staff, dedicated to First Nations justice issues, preferably on a Treaty basis.
    • A commitment be made that the Alberta Department of Justice will work with First Nations and the federal government to ensure resources available under federal initiatives (such as the federal Aboriginal Justice Strategy) are made available to First Nations.
    • Detailing how the provincial Department of Justice intends to act upon the specific recommendations of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples Report - Bridging the Cultural Divide.
    • The province of Alberta ensure the allocation of resources for Aboriginal community corrections be proportionate in regards to the ratios of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit involved within the justice system.
  9. An annual report on First Nations, Metis and Inuit justice issues be developed and submitted on an annual basis by the Alberta Department of Justice to First Nations, Treaty Tribal Councils, the First Nations, the First Nations Advisory Committee, the Alberta Department of Justice and the provincial legislature.
  10. The following Treaty 7 First Nations of Alberta recommendations be supported, namely:
    • Alberta make a political commitment to make First Nations justice a high priority for those First Nations who choose to work with the province in this area. This commitment should be confirmed and described in a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Treaty 7 Tribal Council and Alberta.
    • The MOU create a joint political structure made up of Treaty 7 Chiefs who choose to participate and the Alberta Minister of Justice to drive and track the progress that is made in achieving these goals. Alberta should commit sufficient internal resources to ensure that the work will get done in a timely way.
    • Alberta dedicate funds both to implement new initiatives and to properly fund and enhance existing programs such as policing and community corrections. These funds should be set aside solely for this purpose. The rules to access these funds should be clear and transparent.
    • Alberta press Canada to contribute development and program funding for First Nations justice initiatives. In the short term, Alberta should immediately commit funds necessary to match the funds available from Canada under the federal Aboriginal Justice Strategy.
  11. The Alberta Indigenous Lawyers, Law Society of Alberta, recommendations be supported, namely:
    • Government formally acknowledge the Justice on Trial report (1991 provincial inquiry known as Cawsey Report) and recognize the following principles:
    - Aboriginal people must participate and be involved in the criminal justice system in a significant and substantive way.
    - The restorative justice approach of Aboriginal people is a valued process which is to be reflected in the justice measure addressing the problems of Aboriginal persons who are before the criminal justice system.
    • Governments commit to adequate resourcing of Aboriginal justice measures including:
    - Financially supporting Aboriginal organizations and communities involved in Aboriginal justice over the long-term.
    - Coordinating, in a cooperative and expeditious manner, government joint funding of Aboriginal justice initiatives and contributing new resources not necessarily linked to joint funding.
    - Providing additional resources to enable the criminal justice system to positively respond to Aboriginal justice initiatives.
    • Government approve and commit to supporting significant new pilot Aboriginal justice endeavours both in rural and urban areas.
    • The Alberta government establish an Aboriginal Justice Commission with a ten-year mandate to monitor the implementation of the Justice on Trial report including:
    - Monitor and upgrade programs and initiatives implemented pursuant to the Justice on Trial recommendations.
    - Employ an Aboriginal Advocate who would accept all complaints against the
    criminal justice system and ensure all complaints are processed by the existing
    complaint mechanisms.
    - Serve as an informed body which can assist governments to develop policies
    related to Aboriginal justice issues.
    - Table its report annually with the Legislative Assembly of Alberta.
  12. The following All-Party MLA Public Consultation Committee recommendations be supported:
    • Alberta Justice, in concert with representatives of the First Nations and Metis communities, undertake a complete review of the implementation status of the recommendations contained in the Cawsey Report, with a view to implementing those recommendations that have not been implemented to date.
    • Alberta Justice examine the reported discrimination of Aboriginal people in the criminal justice system to determine the extent of this issue and any action that needs to be taken to address the issue.
    • The federal and provincial governments more clearly delineate their respective roles and responsibilities, as they relate to the administration of justice and Aboriginal people.
  13. Funding be based on need and audited annually for training and preventive programs.
  14. The Cawsey Report, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, and the Ownership and Responsibility - Metis Settlements Justice Workshops Final Report recommendations be implemented.
  15. A Metis justice system be established and implemented.
  16. Indigenization of the justice system be adopted.
  17. Support be given to Judge Reilly.
  18. More appropriate programs for Aboriginal women in conflict with the law be developed and maintained.
  19. The current practices in child welfare be evaluated and changed to eliminate cultural bias.
  20. An independent body investigate police complaints.
  21. The root causes of crime be addressed with an emphasis on parental involvement.
  22. The rights of Indians or Treaty Indians not be terminated.
  23. First Nations, Metis and Inuit administer their own justice system with appropriate funding from government.
  24. There be more use of alternative resolution methods for Aboriginal people outside of reserves and settlements.
  25. Education be provided in schools and for the general public on Metis, First Nations, Inuit, Treaties and Aboriginal justice systems using all of the technologies available.
  26. There be cross-cultural education, training and methods for justice and social services personnel. (no consensus)
  27. Alberta Justice update and implement the recommendations of previous reports. (Cawsey, etc.)
  28. Interactions be enhanced between Aboriginal and other cultures to foster cultural understandings.
  29. Curriculum be created for school-age children to foster understanding of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal justice. (no consensus)
  30. More resources and training be allocated to Aboriginal policing.
  31. Resources be increased to strongly address specific social problems, like unemployment and low education, which contribute to crime.
  32. To the extent possible, there be joint implementation of justice and law services and that there be a blend of primary characteristics of Alberta-Aboriginal systems of justice, law, and punishment. (no consensus)
  33. The Aboriginal system of government and the Alberta system of municipal government be integrated and blended, with a phasing out of federal involvement. (no consensus)
  34. Aboriginal people be included in high-level talks concerning justice matters like the First Ministers' meetings on justice and social-union matters.
  35. Learning opportunities be increased for incarcerated individuals. (no consensus)
  36. There be the education of, and encouragement for, Aboriginal personnel working in the justice system.
  37. The justice department collaborate with other departments to develop and provide information, education, and programs to the public on Aboriginal cultures and values.
  38. The justice department, in collaboration with Aboriginal leaders and communities, develop and provide education to law enforcement and the justice system to increase knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal cultures and values.
  39. Direct involvement of the Native community in the justice process be increased so as to develop a sense of ownership.
  40. Representation of Aboriginal, Metis and Inuit be increased in all levels of the justice system.
  41. Social programs be increased to address socio-economic issues.
  42. Alberta Justice ensure Aboriginal people have appropriate legal counsel.
  43. Alberta Justice establish funding for community-based justice programs.
  44. Sentencing of Aboriginal people include provisions for a healing process.
  45. There be new funding for adequate restorative justice programs.
  46. Both levels of government review and ensure funding and resources for programs, services, and crime prevention initiatives for all Aboriginal people.
  47. Greater emphasis be placed on prevention.
  48. More attention be paid to the issues of Aboriginal women and youth.
  49. The justice system take a leadership role in initiating a review of restrictions within the Indian Act.
  50. The justice system establish an Aboriginal Justice Commission as set out in the Cawsey Report and implement the recommendations in the Cawsey Report, Summit Delegate Workbook and the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.
  51. The justice system include representatives from all Aboriginal groups in high-level and other talks related to justice.
  52. The Aboriginal voice be valued and heard.
  53. The Alberta justice system respect the recommendations put forward time and again and start implementing them.
  54. The need for action is critical! Demonstrate sincerity by acting on these and previous recommendations and implementing the Cawsey Report.
  55. Healing and a community approach to justice be encouraged.
  56. Albertans build on mutual opportunities towards change and respect.
  57. Community-based social programs be delivered.
  58. Aboriginal people be given back the responsibility for their own actions.
  59. Alberta Justice support the 1998 submissions of the Alberta Indigenous Lawyers and the All-Party Consultation Committee with respect to First Nations and Metis justice issues.
  60. Alberta Justice implement the recommendations of the Cawsey Commission.
  61. Education for criminal justice personnel in the area of First Nations and Metis culture, traditions, and values be increased.
  62. There be integration of police training programs to establish a province-wide training centre and program dedicated to First Nations and Metis policing.
  63. An educational and mentoring program for First Nations and Metis children focusing on the criminal justice system and criminal justice careers be implemented. This would include the teachings of elders.
  64. An Aboriginal justice system be established, with control in the areas of policing, courts, sentencing, and corrections. The system must endeavour to reflect the uniqueness of individual bands and settlements.
  65. A process be established to educate the criminal justice system as to how it can make positive change without infringing on original treaty rights.
  66. The Alberta government explore ways to educate First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people on the current justice system.
  67. The Alberta government pilot a justice system administered entirely by the Aboriginal community.
  68. The Alberta government explore some Aboriginal role model programs to develop qualified Aboriginal candidates for all aspects of the justice system.
  69. The Alberta government express the concerns of the summit to the federal government, and that they live up to their constitutional and treaty responsibilities for Aboriginal justice programs -- in particular those related to human resources and funding.
  70. Since much of the involvement of urban Aboriginal people with the justice system is related to poverty, greater coordination occur between federal and provincial governments on social issues like housing, health, education, employment, alcohol treatment, and justice programs.
  71. The government hire more Metis and First Nations judges, Crown prosecutors, and court personnel.
  72. The government fund programs to provide culturally sensitive training for people within the justice system.
  73. The government fund and support community-based First Nations and Metis justice initiatives.
  74. There be ongoing public awareness and education programs dealing with First Nations and Metis history, culture, and justice issues.
  75. The government support First Nations and Metis initiatives regarding separate First Nation and Metis justice systems.
  76. The government show the political will to act on the First Nations and Metis justice issues which have been identified many times before.
  77. The government reduce the disproportionate over-representation of First Nations and Metis caught up in the justice system.
  78. The government provide equal funding to First Nations police services so that training, resources, and pay equals that provided to RCMP and large municipal police forces.
  79. Mandatory, ongoing cultural sensitivity training be provided to workers in the justice system.
  80. The government work with First Nations and Metis people to address self-esteem and self-identity issues caused by assimilation and historical events.

Crime Prevention
We recommend that:

  1. Program development and operations be driven by individual communities, not centrally.
  2. Early intervention be a priority with a focus on pre-natal care, pre-school education, and parenting.
  3. Self-defence should remain a valid defence to physical crimes.
  4. Adequate program funding be provided to ensure the longevity of community programs.
  5. Social problems be considered a vital cause of crime and that they be addressed before crimes are committed.
  6. Offences which do not have broad-based public support be decriminalized.
  7. The public be notified of persons involved in certain crimes. (no consensus)
  8. More security measures be directed to crime prevention.
  9. Healthy gender awareness and development programs be created.
  10. Social programs relating to crime prevention be strengthened.
  11. Families become more involved as a unit.
  12. Preventative programs be maintained and monitored.
  13. There be greater community involvement.
  14. Grade school preventive education be implemented.
  15. People be educated about power dynamics.
  16. Education (not training) and awareness-building programs be developed.
  17. Home security measures be directed to crime prevention. (no consensus)
  18. In an effort to prevent crime, programs that will educate and encourage communities to work together and to feel safe in reporting criminal behaviour be supported.
  19. More funding be found for better cross-cultural training and community involvement for police forces so they may better serve the community.
  20. Priority be given to instilling societal values and respect for others in people. Emphasis should be placed on the extended family role models and targeting children from abused homes and the foster care system.
  21. Government work to identify and resolve social problems that may lead to later criminal behaviour. (e.g. illiteracy, domestic violence, substance abuse, unstable family situations, etc.)
  22. Youth activities, such as sports clubs, based in the community be increased.
  23. Kids be educated on the consequences of criminal behaviour and how it can affect the lives of others.
  24. The prevention and alleviation of the conditions of poverty become a crucial priority of communities and government.
  25. There be a greater allocation of resources for education at all levels: youth, teens, school, and community.
  26. Appropriate levels of funding be allocated for crime prevention and education.
  27. An effort be made between all sectors of the community to collaborate on existing and future programs.
  28. Federal and provincial departments of justice, in partnership with government agencies and community organizations, study the "root" causes of crime.
  29. Communities take ownership and work in partnership with the justice system to promote crime prevention.
  30. The justice system take a leadership role in ensuring that sufficient police are visible and available.
  31. The justice system take a leadership role in providing communities with continuing support, encouragement, and increased awareness of available programs.
  32. The justice system take a leadership role to establish truth in sentencing.
  33. The justice system take a leadership role in committing to crime prevention through social development.
  34. The justice system take a leadership role in addressing legislation to promote crime prevention.
  35. The justice system take a leadership role in clarifying and communicating laws that deal with high-tech crimes.
  36. Funding be increased for police and correctional services.
  37. A foundation be created to support programs.
  38. Ethical beliefs be fostered.
  39. There be the standard application of law.
  40. There be more recognition of public and judicial employees.
  41. There be better reporting and communicating within the system.
  42. Community involvement in public safety be fostered.
  43. The MLA recommendation to establish a task force to examine crime prevention strategies not be implemented. Rather, we recommend that an independent review of crime prevention alternatives be initiated with a view to establishing a crime prevention strategy.
  44. Crime prevention strategies be directed toward youth, including those at risk. It should include social development strategies and address poverty issues, family and parenting skills, early intervention reading skills, and pre-natal care. Adequate and ongoing funding resources should be directed toward these strategies.
  45. Training, education incentives, and support be provided for volunteers involved in crime prevention.
  46. Involvement of community members in policing, crime prevention programs, and alternative justice models be increased.
  47. Consideration be given to the permanent assignment of police officers to communities.
  48. The Alberta government integrate crime prevention and knowledge of the justice system directly into the school curriculum.
  49. A task force be struck with representation from appropriate provincial, federal, and municipal government departments and health, mental health, education, justice, and social service agencies and the private sector to develop an integrated crime prevention strategy for Alberta based on the principle of crime prevention through early intervention initiatives and sound social development.
  50. There be long-term programs for education and job skills usable in today's society.
  51. Immigrants to Canada be better screened with regard to criminal history so as to determine legitimate refugee or immigrant status.
  52. Police be more visible in the schools and the community and be more involved in crime prevention.
  53. Funding be increased or reallocated to provide, as a priority, for a more holistic approach to crime prevention.
  54. Community-based crime prevention programs be established and supported by provincial government departments.
  55. First Nations and Metis crime prevention be specifically addressed by provincial and federal governments.
  56. Crime prevention be addressed by all government departments in an integrated and coordinated way.
  57. Crime prevention be introduced into the school curriculum at elementary and higher levels.

Alternatives to Existing
Justice System Processes
We recommend that:

  1. Private, not-for-profit partnerships be expanded.
  2. Funds and staffing be reallocated from jails to diversion.
  3. Judges be encouraged to consider alternatives to incarceration.
  4. Diversion programs be a mainstream option rather than an alternative.
  5. Restorative justice programs be developed to meet the needs of the mentally ill.
  6. Any changes affecting the justice system adhere to the Canadian Charter of Rights. (no consensus)
  7. A Metis justice system be implemented as an alternative measure.
  8. There be more promotion of alternative measures programs and judicial dispute resolution.
  9. The Metis Judiciary Council be recognized by the Alberta Government.
  10. There be more mediation in the young offenders program between youth, families and victims.
  11. The strengths of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal justice systems be recognized and encourage the acceptance of both where feasible.
  12. The justice system consider public shaming in the community as an option in punishing offenders. (no consensus)
  13. Community sentencing be increased before considering incarceration
  14. Alternative dispute resolution be given top priority in the justice system to save money, time and to give victims a sense of satisfaction.
  15. The justice system include acceptance of change in its mission.
  16. Specific minor offences be diverted into pre-defined alternative measures and sanctions.
  17. Peer programs be brought into the community.
  18. Alberta Justice support, resource and expand alternative programs now operating within government and community agencies.
  19. A comprehensive training program be implemented for those who administer alternative dispute resolution and restorative justice programs.
  20. Alberta Justice continue to expand the use of alternative dispute resolution and restorative justice programs.
  21. Alberta Justice provide adequate resources to ensure program management, accountability and follow-up of alternative dispute resolution and restorative justice programs such as mediation.
  22. Alberta Justice take steps to inform the public of the value and effect of alternative dispute resolution and restorative justice programs.
  23. Alternatives to the justice system be voluntary for all parties and not be mandatory in cases of violent crimes, particularly in cases of domestic violence.
  24. Ongoing reviews be done to ensure alternatives work and incorporate those that do work into the justice system.
  25. There be intelligent, flexible application of alternative measures.
  26. Current and developing rehabilitation programs be used to support alternatives.
  27. Education strategies for prevention and intervention involving youth be implemented.
  28. Aboriginal justice ownership, with consistent standards and application, be expanded.
  29. Wherever applicable, the use of restorative justice programs such as community conferencing, alternate measures, victim-offender mediation, healing and sentencing circles in all Alberta jurisdictions be expanded.
  30. Two judges in Edmonton and two judges in Calgary be appointed to screen civil and criminal matters for alternate justice possibilities and case management.
  31. To improve alternatives in civil justice, a summit be established and involve members of government, the judiciary, legal profession, victim support groups, industry, the medical profession and members of the public.
  32. Training and education of criminal justice personnel and community members in the philosophy and practice of restorative justice programs be increased.
  33. A provision be made in the Criminal Code and Young Offenders Act for police diversion and their own alternative measures programs, apart from provincial programs.
  34. The government recognize the value of investing dollars for coordinators, supervisors and expenses for volunteer programs such as family group conferencing, community justice forums, victim assistance programs and for alternative measures programs follow-up.
  35. With a particular focus on individual community needs, the recommendations of the All-Party MLA Public Consultation Committee be endorsed, namely:
    • Restorative Justice be established as a complementary option to the adversarial system of justice and that, with the victim's informed consent, restorative justice be:
    • a standard response to crimes in which an accused person(s) accepts responsibility for their criminal actions.
    • used in the widest possible range of cases.
    cultivated in culturally appropriate ways across the full cross-section of a community.
    Alberta Justice provide direction and leadership in formalizing a restorative justice system in this province by:
    • beginning collaborative discussions with restorative justice practitioners, professionals from related agencies, and interested community members to:
    • explore how the restorative justice community, Alberta Justice, and the community at large can work together to make restorative justice a sound component of a fair and effective justice system.
    • develop guiding principles for a comprehensive restorative justice policy.
    • set out a plan, based on those guiding principles, to design and implement restorative justice programs in Alberta.
    • providing funding to support restorative justice initiatives so that restorative justice can be given the profile that it warrant.
  36. As part of restorative justice, the province assist victims in collecting compensation for damages suffered, including court compensation orders.
  37. More pre-charge programs, such as family group conferences and community justice forums for both adult and young offenders, be developed.
  38. Courts and jails deal only with chronic, serious, and violent cases.
  39. The government examine a return to the employment of lay persons, such as Justices of the Peace and lay magistrates for non-serious offences, as an alternative to lawyers for some positions in the justice system.
  40. The community be involved in providing stronger support for victims and rehabilitation for offenders.
  41. The government accept healing and restorative traditions used in First Nations and Metis communities as valid and use them as models in the mainstream justice system.
  42. First Nations and Metis people establish their own corrections system.
  43. Government expand the categories of offences eligible for sentencing alternatives.
  44. Police be given the discretionary power to assist the community to deal with minor offences when they occur.
  45. Crown prosecutors be independent agents, part of the criminal bar, doing both prosecution and defence.
  46. Government follow and implement the recommendations of alternative justice methods presented earlier by the Metis Nation of Alberta. (see recommendations under First Nations, Metis and Inuit Justice section)
  47. Whenever possible, restorative justice approaches be used as a first option in civil, family, youth and criminal cases.
  48. Alberta Justice provide direction, leadership and funding in formalizing a community-based restorative justice system.
  49. Restorative justice be considered as an option where circumstances warrant, but not be used as a standard response in dealing with victims of sexual assault and family violence.

Public Confidence in the Justice System
We recommend that:

  1. Alberta Justice report back to the delegates and to the public on Alberta Justice Summit results and follow-up within six months.
  2. The law and judicial process reflect the democratic will of Canadians.
  3. Support be given to communities, including Aboriginal communities, to maximize their participation in the justice system.
  4. The concept of restorative justice be supported to alleviate any inequalities that exist.
  5. To restore Aboriginal confidence, Alberta Justice and the Alberta government enhance the working relationship with Aboriginal peoples (First Nations/Metis/Inuit) through monitoring and upgrading Aboriginal justice initiatives.
  6. Governments work with community agencies and the media to provide all Albertans with accurate and balanced information about the justice system and its operations.
  7. Care be taken to ensure that victims' rights are protected and upheld.
  8. Jon Havelock be admonished for having released a justice poll on the eve of the Justice Summit.
  9. The public be better informed about the Canadian justice system.
  10. There be a separate monitoring board for Aboriginal concerns. (no consensus)
  11. The concept of "independent judiciary" be adhered to and promoted.
  12. A board be established to review, implement, and monitor recommendations of all summits and that it give a report in one year. (no consensus)
  13. There be equal sentencing for equal crimes. (no consensus)
  14. Justice system education be included in the school curriculum.
  15. Since we may soon be at the verge of a major paradigm shift in Canadian society, it can be made easier or less painful through civilized dialogue. (no consensus)
  16. Professional people/officers that work with the criminal justice system try to gain public confidence. (no consensus)
  17. There be ongoing communication between the Department of Justice and summit delegates and the encouragement of the general public to comment and provide input on an ongoing basis.
  18. An ongoing public review of the justice system be achieved through a continuation of summit meetings.
  19. The justice system be made more transparent for the average person in order to have a free exchange of as much information as possible.
  20. Public education on a changing justice system be increased to encourage better understanding and public dialogue.
  21. Alberta Justice take real action on summit recommendations but without over-simplifying solutions.
  22. The justice system be made aware of and understand religious, cultural and traditional values and beliefs.
  23. Recommendations put forth in existing reports (i.e. Kirby, Cawsey) concerning Aboriginal people be implemented.
  24. A process that fosters continuous communication and information sharing be developed and maintained.
  25. Alberta Justice continue the summit process through follow-up and implementation of recommendations.
  26. An educational program for the public to increase knowledge and understanding of the justice system and process be developed and implemented.
  27. The justice system develop long-term goals and a common vision.
  28. Those who work in the system show respect for it as a means to improve public confidence.
  29. Alberta Justice operate with honesty, integrity, and openness.
  30. Alberta Justice collaborate with other departments, agencies, and communities to address root causes of crime and recidivism.
  31. To empower communities, Alberta Justice set up community advisory committees to develop policy criteria for diversion programs.
  32. Alberta Justice simplify and improve procedures.
  33. The justice system take a leadership role in developing a written consensus on the objective of the justice system. The objective should include timeliness and freedom from political interference
  34. The justice system take a leadership role in ensuring court decisions and sentences are enforced.
  35. The justice system take a leadership role in ensuring that victims are represented with respect.
  36. The justice system be committed to being more accountable and open to public examination.
  37. The justice system take a leadership role in improving the Young Offenders Act.
  38. The justice system employ enough qualified prosecutors to handle the workload.
  39. The justice system pursue the development of restorative options as a complement to adversarial processes.
  40. The justice system fund the implementation of summit recommendations.
  41. Working delegates, as chosen by the each group at the Justice Summit, oversee development of an implementation plan that addresses the recommendations coming from this summit.
  42. Alberta Justice LISTEN!!
  43. Confidence be restored by providing adequate RESOURCING.
  44. Public understanding of the justice system be increased through clear communications.
  45. Judges and legislators be made more responsive to the people.
  46. The offender be held accountable for his/her offences.
  47. The media be held accountable.
  48. Criminal legislation be reformed.
  49. Victims' rights be more fully appreciated.
  50. Rehabilitation programs be increased.
  51. Wrangling between judges and politicians be eliminated through better and ongoing consultation.
  52. Legislation be introduced which would help the public accessing remedies, at no cost to government, including class action suits.
  53. There be broad access to dispute resolution alternatives by creative reallocation of resources, easier access to juries, encouraging mediation, and restricting litigation abuse.
  54. Politicians be more receptive to change in the criminal justice system.
  55. Full support be given to the recommendations of the All-Party MLA Committee with respect to public confidence in the justice system.
  56. Each small discussion group nominate one delegate to monitor the progress of implementing Justice Summit results and report that progress to each delegate.
  57. The federal, provincial, and territorial governments examine the role of judges under the Constitution of Canada with respect to their powers to overrule the laws of Parliament or the Legislature.
  58. The judiciary make an effort to improve their public image, which will lead to more respect for, and confidence in, the system.
  59. The recommendation of the RCMP on public confidence be endorsed, specifically: "Less leniency for offenders, harsher sentences for serious crime, consistent sentencing for the crime committed, restrictions on plea bargaining, and increased judicial accountability."
  60. With regard to plea bargaining, Alberta Justice Crown prosecutors be encouraged to explain to the victim what is taking place.
  61. More care be exercised in the early release of prisoners, and that such releases to be based only on their suitability for release.
  62. The "faint hope" clause be revoked. (no consensus)
  63. There be better training for persons receiving calls under the Protection for Persons in Care Act in order to promote better confidence in the Act.
  64. To help regain confidence in the system, the political will be shown to address the justice issues identified by the public at this Justice Summit.
  65. Judges, Crown prosecutors, and the police be held accountable for inappropriate professional behavior.
  66. The courts undertake to be more consistent in sentencing and conviction.
  67. The political will be demonstrated to address many First Nations and Metis issues that have been identified many times in the past.
  68. The government promote currently successful Aboriginal justice initiatives in order to change public confidence.
  69. To avoid overcrowding of jails, more fine option programs for minor, non-violent offences be considered.
  70. Alberta Justice work with federal and provincial government departments, media, schools, and other agencies to ensure accurate information about the justice system is available to all people.
  71. Paedophiles agree to receive treatment or not be released. (no consensus)
  72. Mentally ill persons who refuse to comply with all aspects of medication treatment be involuntarily hospitalized if necessary. (no consensus)
  73. To reflect the values and needs of our society, the justice system change with the times.

Appendices

Public Delegates

    Brent Achtymichuk
    Gord Adams
    Sharon Adams
    Paul Alwood
    Carol Andersen
    Jan Armstrong
    Terence Baker
    Lea Beeken
    James Berland
    John Blair
    Jeanette Blond
    Robert Boodt
    Laura Bowers
    Barb Brewer
    Corinne Brown
    Victor Brown
    Pearl Cameron
    Harrison Cardinal
    Joyce Christianson
    Nadine Clarke
    Dave Cox
    Tom Crane Bear
    Maurice Dallaire
    Jason Danard
    Maddy Daniels-Ghostkeeper
    Sheila Farquharson
    Oscar Fech
    Gordon Fuerst
    Rod Goetz
    Lorraine Goodman
    Melvin Goodswimmer
    Bob Hammond
    David Headman III
    John Hempstock
    Gloria Higgs
    Aaron Hinman
    Lillian Huber
    Millie Hutchinson
    Rick Ireland
    Jess Jorgensen
    Susan Kennedy
    Fred Kinley
    Dawn Klashinsky
    Marlene Knott
    Hope Knudsen
    Christel Laboucane
    Maureen Lavallie
    Albert Law
    Barry Mah
    Sophie Matheson
    Janelle McMaster
    Donna Merritt
    Ken Merritt
    Jose Navarro
    Jean Parent
    Rick Parlby
    Jason Peacock
    Bernard Rostaing
    Sonia Saba
    Ron Sawchuk
    Charlotte Solomon
    Jarret Stinn
    Cairine Sutherland
    Grant Thom
    Earl Thompson
    Linda Toews
    Cheryl Watamaniuk
    Susan Weston
    Fran Williams
    Ossama Yousif
    Rose Zawalykut

Sector Delegates

SECTOR NAME ORGANIZATION
Academic Michelle Andrews Program Chair, Correctional Services, Grant McEwan Community College
Scott Grills President, Confederation of Alberta Faculty Associations
Patrick Knoll Professor, Faculty of Law, University of Calgary and Chair, Law Enforcement Review Board
Adrian Stimson
Federal Government Robert Cormier Director, Corrections Research and Development Division, Solicitor General Canada
David Gates Senior Regional Director of the Prairies and Northwest Territories Regions, Justice Canada
Dave Whellams Counsel, Criminal Law Policy Section, Justice Canada
Ray McCall Public delegate chosen by the federal government
Legal Aid Paul Brunnen Chair, Legal Aid Society of Alberta
Olga Dobrowney Southern Director, Legal Aid Society of Alberta
James Craik
John Wiebe
Legal Community Kirk Lambrecht President, Canadian Bar Association (Alberta Branch)
Gary Bigg
Cathy Lane
Paul Moreau
Local Government Delbert Beazer Councillor, Town of Cardston
Bill Brooks Mayor, Town of Raymond
Phyllis Kobasiuk Reeve, Parkland County
Media John Brittain Program Chair, Department of Journalism, Grant MacEwan Community College
Mark Jan Vrem Alberta Broadcasters' Association
Frank McTighe Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association
Allison Redford Chair, Alberta Press Council
Metis Nation of Alberta Frank Berland Chair, Provincial Metis Justice Committee
Wayne Cunningham Justice Portfolio Holder, Metis Nation of Alberta
John Phillips Zone 3 Provincial Metis Justice Committee Member
Judy Daniels
Metis Settlements General Council Walter Anderson
Joseph Blyan
Joan Haggerty
August Schroeder
Non-Government Organizations Tony Hudson Canadian Mental Health Association, Alberta Division
Sheila Osborn Central Alberta Women's Outreach Society
Gordon Sand Calgary John Howard Society
Brenda Wadey Calgary Elizabeth Fry Society
Police Julie Friesen Chairperson, Alberta Association of Municipal Police Commissions
Lloyd Hickman Superintendent, RCMP
Jon Netelenbos President, Alberta Federation of Police Associations
Christine Silverberg Chief/Deputy Chief, Calgary Police Service
Rick Hanson
Provincial Government Richard Butler Acting Director, Aboriginal Justice Initiatives Unit, Alberta Justice
Ken Hawrelechko Senior Manager, Operations, Court Services, Alberta Justice
Irv Yaverbaum Coordinator, Criminal Law Policy and Special Projects, Criminal Justice, Alberta Justice
Ivan Bernardo Public delegate chosen by the provincial government
Seniors Nick Kutash
Noreen Mahoney
Don Mayne
Elizabeth Poitras
Treaty 6 Colette Arcand
Ray Arcand
Dennis Callihoo
Thomas Potts
Treaty 7 Ron Many Heads Justice Manager, Siksika Nation
Rick Soup
Celeste Strikes With A Gun
Treaty 8 Joe Belrose Lesser Slave Lake Indian Regional Council
Danny Laboucan Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council
Ray Yellowknee Bigstone Cree Nation
Victims Sue Dougans Westlock Victims' Services
Allison Kossowan Provincial Coordinator, Alberta Association of Sexual Assault Centres
Vedna McGill Harbour House Women's Emergency Shelter
Sandy Atkin
Youth Ajeet Kalsi
Justin L'Hirondelle
Ryan Simard
Nathan Sytsma

Official Observers

Laurie Blakeman
MLA, Edmonton-Centre

Paul Bourque
Deputy Minister of Justice and Deputy Attorney General, Alberta

Hazel Cail
Executive Assistant to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Alberta

Wayne Cao
MLA, Calgary-Fort

Gary Dickson
MLA, Calgary-Buffalo

Honourable Sam Gargan
Speaker, Legislative Assembly, Northwest Territories

Marlene Graham,
Q.C. MLA, Calgary-Lougheed

Jack Haasbeek
Executive Assistant to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Manitoba

Barbara Hall
National Chair, Steering Committee for National Strategy on Community Safety and Crime Prevention

Denis Herard
MLA, Calgary-Egmont

Jack Janssen
Executive Assistant to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Alberta

Paul Janzen
Special Assistant to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Manitoba

Karen Kryzska
MLA, Calgary-West

Bruce MacFarlane
Deputy Minister of Justice and Deputy Attorney General, Manitoba

Honourable Anne McLellan
Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Canada

Catherine Moar
Special Assistant to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Canada

Honourable Lois Moorcroft
Minister of Justice, Yukon

David Riley
Deputy Minister of Community Affairs and Attorney General, Prince Edward Island

Honourable Vic Toews, Q.C.
Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Manitoba

Stu Whitley
Deputy Minister of Justice, Yukon

Submissions to the Summit

Alberta public
Report of the All-Party MLA Public Consultation Committee
Contact: Richard Magnus, MLA Calgary North-Hill. Ph: 780-427-3018.

Academic sector
Submission to the Alberta Summit on Justice - Academic Sector
Contact: Professor Wayne Renke, University of Alberta. Ph: 780-492-9809.

Federal government
Canada's Role in the Justice System - Government of Canada Submission to the Alberta Summit on Justice.
Contact: Justice Canada Communications. Ph: 613-957-4222.

First Nations
Treaty 6 First Nations of Alberta: Submission to the Alberta Summit on Justice.
Contact: Rupert Arcand. Ph: 780-483-9404.

Treaty 7 First Nations: Treaty 7 Issue Statement on First Nation Justice.
Contact: Ron Many Heads. Ph: 403-734-5129.

Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta: Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta Submission to the Alberta Summit on Justice.
Contact: Chief Dustin Twin. Ph: 780-444-9366.

Legal Community
Submission of the Law Society of Alberta to the Alberta Summit on Justice.
Contact: Peter Freeman, Q.C. Ph: 403-229-4700.

Legal Aid
Submission of the Legal Aid Society of Alberta to the Alberta Summit on Justice.
Contact: Nancy Brown Medwid, Legal Aid Society of Alberta. Ph: 780-427-7575.

Metis people
Metis Nation of Alberta: A Time for Opportunity and Renewal: Report to the Alberta Summit on Justice.
Contact: Bruce Gladue, Metis Nation of Alberta. Ph: 780-455-2200.

Metis Settlements General Council: Ownership and Responsibility - Metis Settlements Justice Workshops Final Report.
Contact: Harold Robinson, Metis Settlements General Council. Ph: 780-427-1122.

Aboriginal Mini-Summit on Justice: A Call to Action.
Contact: Bruce Gladue, Metis Nations of Alberta. Ph: 780-455-2200 or
Harold Robinson, Metis Settlements General Council. Ph: 780-427-1122.

Municipal police
Community Policing and Community Conferencing: Crime Prevention through Restorative Justice. Impact of Societal. Trends on the Economic Crime Environment. Victims Issues. Preventing Youth Crime.
Contact: Staff Sergeant Dean Albrecht, Edmonton Police Service. Ph: 780-421-3476.

A Submission to the Alberta Summit on Justice by the City of Edmonton's Senior Management Team.

Non-government
Non-government Organization Sector, Submissions to organizations Alberta Summit on Justice.
Contact: Christine Leonard, John Howard Society. Ph: 780-423-4878.

Provincial Government
Submission to the Alberta Summit on Justice, consolidated by Alberta Justice.
Contact: Alberta Justice Communications. Ph: 780-427-8530.

RCMP
Alberta Summit on Justice: RCMP Submission from a Policing Perspective.
Contact: Staff Sergeant Tim Vatamaniuck, "K" Division. Ph: 780-412-5315.

Victims' groups
Alberta Summit on Justice - Victims' Sector Submission.
Contact: Colette Mandin-Kossowan. Ph: 464-9935.

Alberta Summit on Justice Steering Committee

Chair

Honourable Jon Havelock, Q.C., Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Alberta

Members

  • James Bancroft, Q.C., Past-President, Canadian Bar Association (Alberta Branch)
  • Terrance Clackson, Q.C., President Elect, Law Society of Alberta
  • David Gates, Senior Regional Director, Justice Canada
  • Sandra Wing, Acting Director General, Solicitor General Canada
  • Reeve Phyllis Kobasiuk, Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties
  • Mayor Floyd McLennan, Alberta Urban Municipalities Association
  • Stephen Jenuth, Board Member, Calgary Elizabeth Fry Society
  • Charlotte Hanslien, Alberta Police Based Victim Services Association
  • Ron Lameman, Executive Director, Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations
  • Chief John Lindsay, Q.C., President, Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police
  • Richard Magnus, MLA, Calgary-North Hill
  • Assistant Commissioner Don McDermid, Commanding Officer, RCMP "K" Division
  • Ken Noskey, President, Metis Settlements General Council
  • Audrey Poitras, President, Metis Nation of Alberta
  • Gregg Smith, Executive Director, Treaty 7 Tribal Council
  • Chief Dustin Twin, Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta

Advisory Committee

  • Chief Justice Catherine Fraser, Chief Justice of Alberta
  • Chief Justice Ken Moore, Alberta Court of Queen's Bench
  • Chief Judge Ed Wachowich/Acting Chief Judge Ernest Walter, Provincial Court of Alberta

Alberta Summit on Justice Working Committee

Chair

  • Bruce Anderson, representing the provincial government

Members

  • Wayne Renke, representing the academic community
  • LeRoy Johnson, MLA, representing the Alberta public
  • Ellen Hodgson, representing the federal government
  • Rupert Arcand, representing Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations
  • Ron Many Heads, representing Treaty 7 First Nations
  • Jaret Cardinal, representing Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta
  • Nancy Brown Medwid, representing the Legal Aid Society of Alberta
  • James Robb, Q.C., Tim Christian, Q.C., Peter Freeman, Q.C., representing the legal community
  • Bruce Gladue, representing the Metis Nation of Alberta
  • Harold Robinson, representing the Metis Settlements General Council
  • Christine Leonard, representing non-government organizations
  • Staff Sergeant Dean Albrecht, Edmonton Police Service, and Staff Sergeant Tim Vatamaniuck, RCMP, representing the policing community
  • Colette Mandin-Kossowan, representing victims' organizations

Advisor

  • Honourable Ernest Walter, Acting Chief Judge, Provincial Court of Alberta

All-Party MLA Public Consultation Committee

Chair

  • Richard Magnus, MLA, Calgary-North Hill

Members

  • Dave Coutts, MLA Livingston-Macleod
  • LeRoy Johnson, MLA, Wetaskiwin-Camrose
  • Sue Olsen, MLA, Edmonton-Norwood
  • Mary O'Neill, MLA, St. Albert
  • Raj Pannu, MLA, Edmonton-Strathcona
  • Janis Tarchuk, MLA, Banff-Cochrane

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