The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Justice and Public Safety:

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to stand here today to congratulate the first graduates of Drug Treatment Court.

Drug Treatment Court started as an idea in 2016 and grew because of the persistence of those in the legal community. Today we all celebrate how far we have come, but no one should be more proud than our four clients who have successfully completed the program. They made a choice, and with help along the way, can stand tall today knowing they are on the road to recovery.

Mr. Speaker, Drug Treatment Court is an alternative approach for offenders with serious drug addictions who commit non-violent, drug-motivated crimes. Drug Treatment Court establishes long-term supports outside the criminal justice system by offering court monitored treatment, random and frequent drug testing, incentives and sanctions, clinical case management and social services support.

Drug Treatment Court held its first sitting to review applications on January 18, 2019. Over the last 18 months we have had 20 offenders participate actively in various stages of 12-18 month treatment plans.

Mr. Speaker, in addition to recognizing the hard work and accomplishments of the graduates, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our partners including Provincial Court, the Crown Attorney’s Office, Public Prosecutions of Canada, the Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission, Eastern Health, and the Department of Health and Community Services.

I wish the graduates from the Court continued success.

Thank you.