The Manitoba government has announced that they will transition operations of the Indigenous Court Workers Programs to Indigenous rights holder organizations in some key regions.
Justice Minister Cameron Friesen says the government is pleased to be taking another step toward reconciliation by shifting responsibility for court supports to the Indigenous-led organizations themselves.
“Shifting these resources to rights holder organizations who work directly with communities will ensure greater access to this valuable resource for Indigenous people who come in contact with the criminal justice system.”
Indigenous court workers provide culturally appropriate support and help Indigenous people navigate the court's system and connect to resources.
The minister says the province will support the transition of the program by providing annual grants totalling over $1 million a year for two years to four rights holder organizations including Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, Manitoba Metis Federation, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, and the Island Lake Tribal Council.
