Whereas gaps in service within the Provincial Courts continues to deny timely and equitable access to justice services for all British Columbians and will only be exacerbated by rapid population growth; thus, resulting in harms by prolonging closure for individuals awaiting court judgements, inefficient use of police time for travel, and greater challenges for those with limited access to public transit or transportation; And whereas although recent investments made by the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General JAG have increased capacity at specific courthouses, the investments have not facilitated equitable access for all British Columbians or met service level requirements: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM direct the Province of BC to identify and address current gaps in service in the Provincial Courts; and further, release an updated Courthouse Capital Asset Management Plan CAMP which reflects new growth projections and future service level needs.
