The following is being distributed at the request of the Commission of Inquiry Respecting Ground Search and Rescue for Lost and Missing Persons:
Retired Provincial Court Judge James Igloliorte, Commissioner of the Public Inquiry Respecting Ground Search and Rescue for Lost and Missing Persons, wishes to advise the public of the following matters relevant to the work of the Inquiry.
The Public Inquiry was established by an Order-In-Council dated January 14, 2021. It is to prepare a final report which shall:
- Review the organization and operation of ground search and rescue in the Province including air support for ground search and rescue; and
- Make recommendations that the Commissioner considers necessary and advisable related to ground search and rescue in the Province.
In order to advance the work of the Inquiry and to meet the June 30, 2021 submission deadline, Commissioner Igloliorte retained Commission Counsel Geoff Budden along with administrative staff and expert consultants and began preparing for scheduled roundtables in Makkovik, St. John’s and elsewhere.
Unfortunately, the work and planning of the Inquiry has been disrupted by the resurgence of the COVID-19 virus and the subsequent restrictions on meeting and, especially, travelling. As a result, Commissioner Igloliorte has felt it necessary to postpone preparatory work and community roundtables and to request, from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, an extension of time to file his Final Report.
Commissioner Igloliorte has been advised that his request has been granted and that he is now to submit his Final Report to the Minister of Justice and Public Safety on or before November 30, 2021.
A website dedicated to the work of the Commission will be live early next week.
– 30 –
Media contact
Geoffrey Budden
c/o Budden and Associates
709-576-0077
geoff@buddenlaw.com