Victims compensation increases in Saskatchewan

REGINA – Victims of violent crime in Saskatchewan will receive increased compensation for offences committed on or after Oct. 1, 2014.

The changes, the largest enhancement since the program’s inception in 1992, came after feedback from clients and consultation with victim services in the community.

“We’ve taken this feedback to heart, and are pleased to offer significantly improved supports for victims of violent crime in this province,” said Gordon Wyant, Saskatchewan’s justice minister and attorney general.

Under the changes, the maximum compensation for victims increases to $100,000 from $25,000 and compensation for funeral expenses increases by $1,500 to $5,000.

Offences involving motor vehicle-related deaths have been added to the list. This will allow immediate family members to possibly receive compensation for counselling.

Two new categories provide counselling compensation for homicide witnesses and child witnesses of domestic violence.

There is also compensation for lost wages for parents or other persons accompanying a child victim or an adult victim with a disability to medical or counselling appointments related to the victimization.

The victims compensation program assists people with immediate expenses following a violent crime and during the criminal justice process.