NDP MLA Nicole Saraurer is challenging Justice Minister Don Morgan to either reverse proposed cuts to Legal Aid Saskatoon or resign.
“At a minimum we want the Minister to ensure that the three vacant positions for lawyers that are going to be let go be filled immediately. And also the six support staff that are going to be let go be reinstated,” Saraurer said.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees says six Legal Aid workers have been issued lay-off notices last Thursday and Friday.
Deb Hopkins, Vice-President of CUPE Local 1949, says thousands of files are going to private attorneys.
“We’re calling for the Minister of Justice to step up and stand up for Legal Aid, to adequately fund Legal Aid it’s been woefully underfunded for far too long” said Sarauer.
Both Hopkins and Sarauer fear that the cuts will drastically affect vulnerable and marginalized people greatly, as they rely on Legal Aid.
The provincial government is not fielding questions, referring them to Legal Aid.
(PHOTO:NDP Justice Critic Nicole Sarauer. MBC file)