Saskatchewan commits $17.2 million to alternative justice programs

Minister of Justice and Attorney General Tim McLeod speaks to reporters at a press conference in Saskatoon on Tuesday. (Keenan Sorokan / CTV News)

The Government of Saskatchewan is investing $17.2 million over the next four years into alternative and extrajudicial justice programs across the province.

A total of $4.3 million will be invested annually over the next four fiscal years until 2029-30.

It will be distributed to more than 20 First Nations, tribal councils and community-based organizations that deliver alternative measures and extrajudicial sanctions programs.

“Alternative measures and extrajudicial sanctions programs play a crucial role in strengthening community safety by ensuring that people who cause harm are held accountable in meaningful ways,” Justice Minister Tim McLeod said in a Monday news release.

“By continuing to invest in these long-standing initiatives, our government is supporting approaches that reduce reoffending, restore relationships, empower victims, address the root causes of harmful behaviour and create safer communities.”

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According to the province, these programs hold people accountable for their crimes and provide them with the chance to take responsibility for their actions and repair harm to victims and communities.

The alternative measures programs are used when the accused is an adult, while extrajudicial sanctions programs are used when the accused is a youth.

“These programs have been part of Saskatchewan’s justice system for decades and are designed to reduce reoffending while keeping victims’ and communities’ needs at the forefront,” the release read.

The province’s funding commitment seeks to ensure the continued, stable delivery of these measures.

Individuals are referred to these programs by police, courts and prosecutors. The province says most of the referrals result in an agreement between the offender, victim and or community representative to address the harm caused by the offending behaviours. This usually involves reparations through compensation, restitution, counselling and community service.

“Sustainable funding is critical to the success of alternative measures and extrajudicial sanctions,” said Saskatoon Tribal Council Tribal Chief Mark Arcand.

“Investing in these programs helps tackle the root causes of crime while supporting people to make positive choices. The Saskatoon Tribal Council is committed to working alongside the province to build safer communities, prevent further victimization and keep our relatives out of the justice system.”