The provincial government of Nova Scotia has announced a significant new four-year agreement with the Nova Scotia Crown Attorneys' Association. This contract addresses a range of important issues affecting Crown attorneys, highlighting the government's commitment to enhancing the province's public prosecution service.
The new deal includes various enhancements, such as wage increases and a classification adjustment for Crown attorneys. In addition, there will be changes to on-call compensation practices, which are crucial for attorneys whose roles often require them to be available outside of regular working hours. Importantly, the agreement also includes enhancements related to equity, diversion, and inclusion language as it pertains to the hiring process, ensuring that the justice system becomes more reflective of the community it serves.
The contract is effective from April 1, 2023, and will run through to March 31, 2027. This timeframe demonstrates the government's intention to create a stable environment for Crown attorneys and the broader judicial system. Justice Minister Becky Druhan expressed her gratitude towards the association and the negotiating teams, stating, “I thank the association, the negotiating teams and all Crown attorneys for the important work they do every day on behalf of Nova Scotians.” Her comments emphasize the collaborative spirit in which the agreement was reached, noting that they came to the negotiating table in good faith.
The Nova Scotia Crown Attorneys' Association represents a workforce of 126 Crown attorneys who play a pivotal role in ensuring public safety and reinforcing justice for the citizens of Nova Scotia. Brian Cox, the president of the association, welcomed the new employment agreement, calling it “an important investment in the province’s justice system.” He underscored the critical role that Crown attorneys play, particularly in advocating for the vulnerable victims of crime, and expressed appreciation for the province's commitment to recruiting and retaining dedicated professionals in the justice sector. Cox's statement highlights the dual focus of the agreement: not only to improve compensation but also to support the broader goals of justice and community welfare.
This new agreement is seen as a crucial step towards strengthening the effectiveness and fairness of the province’s justice system. With the implementation of equity, diversion, and inclusion strategies in hiring, the government aims to create a more inclusive and representative prosecution service that better serves the diverse population of Nova Scotia.
In conclusion, the announcement of this four-year contract signifies a positive development in the relationship between the Nova Scotia government and its Crown attorneys. By investing in the workforce responsible for prosecuting cases and advocating for victims, the government is contributing to a more effective and equitable judicial system in the province.
