Conway Ottenheimer Urges Review of Crown Attorney Resources

(August 9, 2024, St. John’s, N.L.)

Helen Conway Ottenheimer, PC Shadow Minister for Justice and MHA for Harbour Main has strongly criticized the Furey Liberals for their continued failure to address the urgent and longstanding issues in the province's court system. Her remarks come as the Newfoundland and Labrador Crown Attorneys Association (NLCAA) once again raises the alarm over a severe shortage of Crown prosecutors, a crisis that is increasingly undermining the justice system's efficiency and effectiveness.

This concern is heightened by recent statistical data showing a dramatic rise in crime across Newfoundland and Labrador, further exposing the government's inability to manage and respond to the growing challenges in public safety. According to recent reports, crown prosecutors are struggling with unprecedented workloads, leading to significant delays in legal proceedings and retention issues.

"This is a serious issue that cannot continue to be ignored by this government," stated Conway Ottenheimer. "The ever-growing amount and increasing complexity of cases simply compound the existing challenges that have been highlighted in years past. Inaction leaves victims and defendants in a state of limbo and jeopardizes the appropriate exercise of justice."

Conway Ottenheimer calls for an urgent review of the staffing levels and resources provided to the Crown Attorney's Office, ensuring the NLCAA's concerns are met with appropriate action this time instead of silence once again.

"Intervention is necessary to prevent matters from becoming worse than they already are. The daily operation of the judicial system relies on timely and effective prosecution. These concerns highlight the need to address longstanding issues to ensure both. We owe it to the people of this province and those serving the vital role in our judiciary."