Following the Minister of Justice’s comments yesterday about her tour of Ontario courts and exploring ways to improve our court system here at home, NDP MHA Sheilagh O’Leary (St. John’s East-Quidi Vidi) has written to the Minister inviting a collaborative approach to examining how restorative justice can help reduce pressure on our courts while building safer communities.
O’Leary hosted a panel discussion on restorative justice this spring, bringing together local non-profit organizations that provide essential restorative justice programming. The discussion highlighted how investing in these services can support those impacted by harm, provide meaningful pathways toward rehabilitation and reintegration, and lead to better outcomes for communities across our province.
“It was encouraging to hear you speak yesterday about the need to reduce the number of repeat offenders who not only place significant strain on our court system, but who will ultimately return to our communities and need the right supports to successfully rebuild their lives while keeping residents safe,” she wrote. “While you didn’t mention it by name, what you described is the foundation of restorative justice. It’s an approach that emphasizes accountability, rehabilitation, and addressing the root causes of crime so people are better equipped to successfully reintegrate into society.”
O’Leary says that as communities continue to voice concerns around criminal activity, a collaborative approach is needed. Working together would allow for more fulsome consultation and innovative solutions to strengthen our justice system, while building a better understanding of how we can improve outcomes for justice workers, those impacted by harm, communities, and reduce repeat offending.
“I would be pleased to offer my support in this effort and would welcome the opportunity to organize a roundtable discussion with these organizations to explore how we can strengthen and expand restorative justice in Newfoundland and Labrador,” she wrote. “Bringing together community organizations, justice professionals, and government would be a valuable first step toward building a system that better serves everyone.”
A full copy of the letter is attached.