Attorney General Barry Penner made the following statement on the Royal Assent of the Fair and Efficient Criminal Trials Act.

"I want to extend congratulations to the federal government for making the Fair and Efficient Criminal Trials Act law. This federal legislation is an important step to help prosecute gang-related activities, organized crime, drug trafficking, white collar and terrorist trials in a more efficient and timely manner.

"British Columbia and other provinces worked collaboratively with the federal government to develop this legislative policy and will continue be active. Last week, I met with the federal justice minister and also with the chair of House of Commons justice committee to discuss our suggestions for further Criminal Code revisions.

"In B.C., we have seen an increase in the number of major trials before the courts, as well as complexity and time it takes for them to be heard. This legislation will help reduce some of the inherent duplication and improve criminal procedures to reduce the number of days required to try these cases.

"These continue to be challenging economic times and we welcome every effort to use taxpayer dollars wisely in the pursuit of justice.

"I look forward to continuing to work closely with my federal colleagues to ensure the justice system has the tools and capacity to effectively respond to crime."

Contact:

Sarah Harrison
Communications Director
Ministry of Attorney General
250 387-4965