A Fairer System: Changes to Compensation for Justices of the Peace

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The Justices of the Peace (Commission) Amendment Regulations, 2023, known as Saskatchewan Regulations 71/2023, were established under The Justices of the Peace Act, 1988. These regulations introduce changes aimed at updating compensation structures and administrative processes for justices of the peace in Saskatchewan. The amendments primarily focus on the payment and contribution systems for both relief justices and administrative justices of the peace.

The regulations amend the existing Justices of the Peace (Commission) Regulations (RRS c J-5.1 Reg 2) to incorporate the new provisions. Specifically, Section 4 updates the payment structure for relief justices of the peace, stating that starting November 5, 2023, these justices will receive compensation at a rate of 1/1760 of the annual salary outlined in subsection 3(3) for each hour worked. This change is intended to streamline payment calculations and ensure fair compensation for their time.

Additionally, Section 4.1 has been restructured and expanded to provide further financial recognition to administrative justices of the peace. Under the new provisions, those appointed pursuant to subsection 3(8) of the Act will receive an additional 2% of their annual salary, acknowledging their specialized roles within the judiciary.

Section 8 introduces new contribution rates for relief justices. Effective November 5, 2023, these justices will contribute 5% of their pro rata salary until they reach the age of 71. In support of these judicial officers, the Government of Saskatchewan will also contribute 7.6% of the pro rata salary for each relief justice, bolstering their financial security as they approach retirement.

The Justices of the Peace (Commission) Amendment Regulations, 2023, intends to improve the efficiency and fairness for justices of the peace by modifying compensation rates and establishing new contribution guidelines, the regulations aim to better support justices of the peace and recognize their essential roles within the justice framework.

Saskatchewan (71/2023) August 17, 2023