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3w ago

BC Crown Prosecutors File Grievance Over Staffing Shortages in Okanagan and Kootenay

The BC Crown Counsel Association seeks arbitration to address understaffing, citing court delays, burnout, and recruitment struggles.

The courthouse in Cranbrook, B.C., is seen on Feb. 3, 2017. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

Overview

  • The BC Crown Counsel Association has formally filed a workload grievance against the BC Prosecution Service, alleging breaches of their collective agreement due to inadequate staffing levels.
  • Staffing shortages are reported to be particularly severe in Vernon, Kelowna, Penticton, Nelson, and Cranbrook, where growing populations have increased legal workloads.
  • The grievance seeks an arbitrator’s declaration that the Prosecution Service must hire 20 additional Crown counsel, a 25% increase, to meet contractual obligations.
  • Association president Adam Dalrymple warns that excessive workloads are causing burnout among prosecutors and hindering efforts to attract and retain staff.
  • The BC Prosecution Service has not responded to requests for comment, and the matter is now before an arbitrator for resolution.