Quebec Government Says New Powers for Justices of the Peace Will Reduce Court Delays

Quebec Government House Leader and Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette responds to reporters' questions prior to question period at the legislature in Quebec City, on Jan. 30, 2024. The Canadian Press/Jacques Boissinot

Quebec’s justice minister is giving more responsibility to justices of the peace to free up provincial court judges and reduce delays.

Simon Jolin-Barrette says presiding justices of the peace will be given the power to oversee criminal court appearances and bail hearings.