Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am pleased to be here today to discuss Bill 15, Document Formalization Service and Notice Reform Statutes Amendment Act. I would like to thank the Standing Committee on Social Development for its review of Bill 15.
This omnibus bill has the overall goal of improving access to justice for residents of the Northwest Territories by introducing a suite of amendments that will improve effectiveness, reduce inconvenience, and lower costs for the government and the public.
The Department of Justice has undertaken a comprehensive review of NWT statutes, regulations, and court rules with a view to modernizing and streamlining processes and reducing unnecessary barriers for the public. This review also gave consideration to legislation found in other jurisdictions.
The department consulted with all relevant departments, public agencies, and the Law Society of the Northwest Territories before advancing these amendments. There are also a large number of adjustments that relate to regulations, and those are being undertaken independently of the proposed amendments to these statutes.
The proposed amendments will:
- provide practical and straightforward options for the service of documents, including alternatives to the use of mail;
- update and simplify processes for giving notice to individuals and the public at large; and
- eliminate unnecessary legislative formalities, such as requiring documents to be attested to by a notary public or commissioner for oaths, or otherwise witnessed.
I would be pleased to answer any questions that the committee may have regarding Bill 15. Thank you.