The provincial government is providing funding for a community-led safety strategy, and is  partnering with local organizations to increase the use of restorative justice in northern Manitoba.

 

Justice Minister Cliff Cullen says the government is giving the City of Thompson a $35, 000 grant to work with a consultant and develop a community safety and well-being strategy plan.

 

Additionally, Cullen announced that they will be launching a pilot project called Restorative Justice North in partnership with Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak and the Manitoba Metis Federation.

 

A press release from the government states that the pilot project brings restorative justice partners together to assess and divert matters into appropriate programs and resolve them in a more timely fashion.

 

The minister noted the goal of Restorative Justice North is to increase the use of diversion options in Thompson. Accordingly, MKO will also develop a complementary restorative justice program for Thompson, based on their existing expertise in restorative justice.

 

The government states that every year, over 5, 000 matters are diverted out of the criminal justice system to be resolved through restorative justice programs. They add that restorative justice and diversion programs have proved beneficial for addressing systemic roots causes that lead to criminal activity and create an opportunity for the offender to make amends to the victim and the community, and help reduce the likelihood of future contact with the legal system.