Committee formed to look at Ontario jury reformation

Attorney General John Gerretsen has committed to “immediately work to address” the first two recommendations made in a report by Justice Frank Iacobucci in his report “First Nations Representation on Ontario Juries.” Gerretsen said an implementation committee that includes representatives from the First Nations community and from various government ministries will be formed. The committee will consider the report’s recommendations, and how they might be implemented. A provincial advisory group will also be set up to provide advice to the Attorney General on matters relating to First Nations and the justice system. Iacobucci’s report is an independent review which began in the fall of 2011 and addressed the lack of representation on juries of First Nations people who live on-reserve. Iacobucci’s report includes 17 recommendations, including recommendations specific to Nishnawbe Aski Nation. “We accept this very credible report and look forward to working with the Ministry of the Attorney General to ensure not only that all First Nations can exercise their right to serve on juries but that there is a path forward to fix the justice system,” said NAN Deputy Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler.