Operations of the Indigenous Court Workers Program will transition to Indigenous rights holder organizations.

A move by the province to transition the operations of the Indigenous Court Workers Program to Indigenous rights holder organizations is being met with approval by four groups; Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, Manitoba Metis Federation, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization and the Island Lake Tribal Council who agree that the move will improve cultural safety for their citizens and play an important role in ensuring victims and families are connected with Victims Services, such as those for families of missing and murdered indigenous women.

Indigenous court workers will provide culturally appropriate support and help Indigenous people navigate the court system and connect to resources both in and out of the accused person’s community.

Justice Minister Cameron Friesen noted the transition aligns with Manitoba Justice’s Criminal Justice System Modernization Strategy and will align Manitoba with other provinces that provide these services. Therefore, the province will support the transition of the program by providing annual grants totalling more than $1 million a year for two years.

MKO’s Grand Chief Garrison Settee said the move will also assist with the implementation of restorative justice in northern Manitoba and marks an important step toward truth and reconciliation and the implementation of the 94 Calls to Action.