By Curtis Galbraith

City Hall

Effort to bring Queen’s Bench judge to Grande Prairie moves ahead

Nov 29, 2021 | 8:41 PM

The effort to have a Court of Queen’s Bench judge in Grande Prairie has taken a step ahead.

Alberta Justice Minister Kaycee Madu has written to Mayor Jackie Clayton to say that the Court of Queen’s Bench Act has been amended to increase the number of judge positions.

He calls this the first step in having two Queen’s Bench judges named for Grande Prairie.

Clayton says the province recognizes the city’s need and is advocating for Grande Prairie to have two rather than one.

“To see the minister identify the need for two is very pleasing. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to advocate to the federal government to see the possibility of having two,” she said.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

“We’d love to see two positions filled and having the minister recognize that need is a step in the right direction.”

The decision on whether this goes ahead is up to the federal government.

“I’ll work with MP (Chris) Warkentin and have him advocate on our behalf as well. (We will also be) writing out to the appropriate people in the departments of the federal government,” Clayton explained.

“The federal government funds these positions and appoints the positions but to have the support of the provincial government advocating with us for these positions is a great opportunity.”

Clayton adds dealing with federal officials rather than provincial does not mean the approach will change.

“I just think it adds one more person behind us when we’re writing these letters and advocating for this region and the needs.”

“Having the provincial government sending the letter, us supporting that letter, working with our local MP, and writing to the appropriate federal organizations that advocate with us will strengthen our ask and hopefully this will come to fruition sooner than later.”

It has been over 20 years since there was a Court of Queen’s Bench judge in Grande Prairie even though legislation designated it as one of the places that should have its own.