As it does for many, the end of the legislative sitting always brings me to a crossroads. I can look both backward to the session past and forward to the times ahead. I must admit, I like what I see in either direction. 

2008 was a remarkable year for the Ministry of Attorney General. We saw many of our plans achieved during these past 12 months. Among the highlights are the opening of Canada’s first community court in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and the opening of the Nanaimo Justice Access Centre, which helped redefine the way Nanaimo and area residents approach legal disputes for matters such as family law. We also began a small claims court pilot project in Vancouver and Richmond. The pilot is expected to help alleviate overcrowding in the Robson Square and Richmond provincial courts, bringing early solutions and faster justice to many.

On the multicultural side of my ministry, government continued to shape our WelcomeBC initiative. The Province funded such important services as English as a second language for immigrants. And, we introduced the provincial Nesika Awards and Make A Case Against Racism campaigns. Both encouraged youth and adults to be a part of creating welcoming, inclusive communities for newcomers, First Nations and Canadians alike.

As we look into 2009, the public can anticipate changes arising from the justice transformation initiative that will help to make the justice system in British Columbia one of the most accessible and affordable in Canada.

With less than a year before the winter Olympics arrive in Vancouver and Whistler, we will soon be able to show off to the world just what a culturally diverse place B.C. is in which to live, play and work.

Thank you to all of you who have contributed to the Ministry of Attorney General’s work in past months. We could not have done it without the participation of many.