The government is taking steps to officially recognize indigenous, which includes increased powers.
Justice Minister and Solicitor General, Kaycee Madu tabled the Justice Statutes Amendment Act, which if passed, will also will use technology to streamline court services.
There are currently three First Nations police services in Alberta, including the Lakeshore Region which is based in Driftpile.
The Lakeshore force has been active since 2008 but First Nations polices forces have been in Alberta for over 20 years.
According to a news release from the ministry, one of the key changes will be an amendment that will allow First Nations police services to issue tickets to enforce the bylaws of the land.
“There have been some difficulties with First Nations police services being able to enforce their bylaws,” said Madu at a press conference announcing the legislation.
Madu says now that bylaw violations in First Nations territory will be enforced in courts.
Another aspect of the legislation according to government documents include the use of technology in trials and hearings by video or teleconference so people can attend court remotely.
In talking about making the justice system more tech-friendly, Madu tells the Trending 55 Newsroom that the COIVD-19 pandemic highlights the need for flexibility.
“We made a lot of changes to make sure that citizens can still deal with the justice system from the comfort of their homes, offices, or wherever they may be in the province,” he says.
– Kenny Trenton, Trending 55 Newsroom
