The provincial government is planning to remove several circuit courts from rural communities in the province, Opposition justice critic Andrew Parsons said today in a news release.
Parsons, who also raised the issue in the House of Assembly Wednesday, said the move will restrict access to justice for people living in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.
“Closing circuit courts, particularly in rural communities, will have a huge effect on people who will have to travel long periods of time, including victims of crime and their families,” he said.
“This will be particularly difficult in the winter when people have to travel long distances and by ferry.”
Circuit courts hear all range of matters including criminal law, highway traffic, hunting and fishing offences and many others. Removing circuit courts in communities will mean huge barriers in accessing court services.
