An Act to Amend the Victims of Crime Act received second reading on May 25, 1999 and will be proclaimed, along with amendments to the Regulations, on August 7, 1999.
"The processing time for claims will be reduced which will lead to greater satisfaction of victims of crime who apply for criminal injuries compensation," stated Wes MacAleer, Minister of Community Services and Attorney General. "The amount for small claims has been raised from $250 to $1,000. This will allow for quicker processing by designated persons acting on my behalf. The list of eligible offences where a criminal injuries compensation award can be made has been broadened to include incest and driving-related offences."
Victims of impaired driving causing bodily harm or death have not been able to apply for criminal injuries compensation unless a charge of criminal negligence has been laid. This has been unfair to victims of some driving-related offences. The rationale for compensating victims of driving-related offences is well founded since most federal victim surcharge revenue results from driver-related offences. Other changes to the Act are intended to simplify and speed up the process and to provide guidance to those administering the Act.
Victim Services can assist Islanders, who find themselves victims of crime, obtain information, support, referral and assistance throughout the criminal justice process and criminal injuries compensation. Their offices are located in Charlottetown at 3 Queen Street, second floor, Tel: 368-4582, and in Summerside at 263 Harbour Drive, Tel: 888-8217.