The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
New Statistics Canada figures have Manitoba's official opposition slamming the government on the justice system. Data released last week showed Manitoba has more than twice as many people in custody per-capita than any other province. For every 100,000 Manitobans, 213 are incarcerated. This compares to 90 for every 100,000 in the rest of the country. Reg Helwer, justice critic for the Progressive Conservatives, said the numbers illustrate that the 'justice system in Manitoba is a mess.' Statistics Canada also reported that the number of Manitobans in custody is so high because of the number of people in remand. 'Essentially we have too many people waiting to get to see a judge and plead their case,' said Helwer. 'If they're innocent, they need a chance to prove it, and if they're guilty they should be spending time in prison where they can get access to programs in order to deal with addictions, education and create opportunities once released.' _ Compiled from a Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba news release
