New Brunswick Crown prosecutors have voted to ratify a new collective agreement with the province.
Members of the New Brunswick Crown Prosecutors Association voted 86 per cent in favour of the deal.
President Shara Munn said the deal provides more competitive pay for both prosecutors and senior prosecutors.
“It makes up for some lost ground, but our justice system is under tremendous pressure,” Munn said in a news release on Wednesday.
“To fix this crisis, the government must act urgently to stop the exodus of experienced prosecutors and bring in the new prosecutors we desperately need.”
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Munn noted that vacancy rates remain “alarmingly high” in prosecution offices across the province and have reached “disaster levels.”
Too few prosecutors cover too many cases, she said, leaving them overburdened and looking for an exit.
“This deal is a step forward, but we still have a long road ahead for the government to give New Brunswickers the criminal justice system they deserve,” said Munn.
In a statement, Finance and Treasury Board Minister Ernie Steeves said they are grateful for the work that Crown prosecutors do every day.
“The government recognizes the valuable contributions of these employees, and those that worked diligently on their behalf toward an officially ratified agreement,” said Steeves.
Further details will be shared once the agreement has been officially signed.
The Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada represents about 115 Crown prosecutors across New Brunswick.
