Two scathing reviews of Ontario Government departments were released today.
The Province of Ontario's Ombudsman issued "Oversight Unseen" which was a review of the Ontario Attorney General's Special Investigation Unit (SIU) which investigates all police incidents that result in serious injury or death to a civilian. Established in 1990 the SIU has become "Timid and fearful of it's watchdog role". Charges are rarely laid - as in 2006 when only 2 were made out of 226 investigations. The Ombudsman, Mr. Andre MARIN made 46 recommendations to improve operations was also in charge of the SIU from 1995-98. To undertake new leadership of the department in order to study and possibly implement the review, the province has just named a Crown attorney and a former defence lawyer who has defended and prosecuted police officers - Mr. Ian D. Scott.
In addition the Goudge Inquiry released its report into Office of the Chief Corners of Ontario regarding their management practices and lack of proper oversight of pediatric forensic pathologist Dr. Charles SMITH. Retired Ontario Superior Court Justice GOUDGE indicated that the senior management of the Coroners Office failed the public.
Both cases reveal the systemic problems in the adminstration of justice and a public loss of confidence.
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