Government has received the independent report from Professor Stephen Toope, president and vice-chancellor of the University of British Columbia, who agreed in May of this year to review the indemnity policy for public servants, announced Attorney General Shirley Bond.

Professor Toope delivered his report to the attorney general Oct. 13. As was committed publicly in the terms of reference, government will review and release the report, in full, within 30 days of its receipt.

Professor Toope was appointed in May 2011 to conduct a review of the policy instituted in the 1980s that assists with legal expenses arising from the performance of their employment. The policy had been applied on a case-by-case basis for criminal matters.

Learn More:

Existing (non-criminal) indemnity policy - see Terms and Conditions for Excluded Employees at http://www.bcpublicserviceagency.gov.bc.ca/policy/terms_conditions/Part_10.htm#73

Indemnities in criminal matters were provided on a case-by-case basis under the Financial Administration Act, Sec. 72 http://www.bclaws.ca/EPLibraries/bclaws_new/document/ID/freeside/00_96138_01#section72).

Stephen Toope's terms of reference http://www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases_2009-2013/2011AG0010-000542.htm).

Contact:

Dave Townsend
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Attorney General
250 387-4962 or 250 889-5945 (cell)