Strategic Context

The justice system is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain as a result of mounting procedural complexities over the past decade.

• Longer delays and increasing costs have made civil and family courts less accessible.
• Most members of the public have difficulty affording litigation, and those who can afford it frequently find that the cost of litigating is disproportionate to the value of the issues involved.
• Procedural complexities in criminal matters have made some cases expensive to defend. This has caused the courts to construct rules that require the state to pay for defence costs in some cases where a defendant is unable to do so.

There is a widespread view that the justice system must be improved. The justice system is often seen by the public as inaccessible, complicated, and unresponsive to the public's needs. There is wide recognition among justice sector participants that the justice system is at a critical threshold and that all participants must work together to effect change.

This context presents the Ministry with an opportunity to transform the justice system into one that protects rights by seeking solutions first, is more responsive to the needs of the public, and that encourages consistent and coordinated direction and action among justice sector participants, while respecting the independence that participants such as judges, the police and Crown counsel must have.

Since the federal government has sole jurisdiction over the Criminal Code of Canada, criminal justice system reform requires continual, collaborative effort between the federal government and all of the provinces and territories.

Immigration brings skilled workers and business investment to the province and strengthens relations with immigrants' countries of origin. British Columbia is a favoured destination for immigrants and temporary residents, including international students. In 2005, the province welcomed 17 per cent of all new immigrants to Canada.

Within British Columbia, there are ongoing challenges in providing settlement and language services that contribute to integration while appreciating diversity. Among these, changing trends in country of origin have greatly increased the need for more English language training and settlement and adaptation services. Newly arrived immigrants are experiencing lower rates of employment, lower initial earnings and a higher incidence of poverty than previous immigrant arrivals have. All provinces are affected by, and must respond to, federal multiculturalism and immigration policy.

Incidents of racism and hate activity occur intermittently in communities, requiring continued government support for programs that help communities develop appropriate responses.

These circumstances present an opportunity for the Ministry to demonstrate leadership in supporting immigrants, promoting multiculturalism and preventing racism.