Investments in core areas of the court system provide Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with a justice system that serves their needs while operating as efficiently and effectively as possible. Budget 2026 includes over $9.5 million in investments that will enhance court services and ensure resources are in place to reduce disruptions across the province.
Making improvements to our court system has been a priority, and the funding in Budget 2026 aims to ensure the courts are operating properly. With an investment of over $8.3 million in Budget 2026, the Provincial Government will enhance court services and provide the necessary resources across the province. This includes 51 new court staff positions, seven additional Provincial Court judge positions and funds for court audiovisual modernization to support virtual bail court.
The Provincial Government is providing funding to adequately staff the Public Prosecutions Division to ensure that Crown Attorneys are ready and able to proceed with scheduled trials. To better manage the complex criminal matters before our courts, Budget 2026 allocates $1.2 million to create 14 new Public Prosecutions resources, which includes six new Crown Attorneys as well as support staff. This investment also includes funding for the Public Prosecutions digital modernization. The funds will allow for the purchase of digital evidence and file management software and the implementation of an Information Management Division. This will allow Public Prosecutions to track data to address crime and court trends in our province, as well as improve other management and administrative duties.
Making certain every community in Newfoundland and Labrador feels safe and secure is a priority for your government. Through investments in the courts and justice system, Budget 2026 is an important step towards delivering on our promise to prioritize public safety for all of us.
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“Timely access to justice is essential. Our government is taking decisive steps to work collaboratively with the courts to develop solutions that will improve access to justice and strengthen the entire justice system. I am confident that with the investments in Budget 2026, we are going to see significant improvements in the court system in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Helen Conway Ottenheimer
Minister of Justice and Public Safety
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