The PPSC updated its Deskbook, which serves to provide information on prosecutorial discretion
The Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC) tabled its 2023-2024 Annual Report in Parliament.
The report, covering the period from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, was overseen by Kathleen Roussel, former Director of Public Prosecutions, who concluded her seven-year tenure during this period.
The report highlighted the PPSC's continued focus on independent, fair, and timely prosecution of federal offences while refining policies to address the over-representation of First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and Black Canadians in the justice system. A key aspect of this effort involved updates to the PPSC Deskbook, which guides prosecutorial discretion. The updated policies emphasize the importance of prosecutors confronting conscious and unconscious biases and considering over-representation during prosecutions.
Additionally, the PPSC enhanced its approach to drug treatment courts, allowing for greater flexibility in cases where complete abstinence may not be realistic but where treatment could assist in reducing criminal behaviour related to substance use. The organization also continued its training for prosecutors and paralegals, applying a Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) approach focusing on Indigenous realities and trauma and applying Gladue principles during prosecution stages.
Regarding workplace development, the PPSC launched its first National Accessibility Plan, along with an Accessibility Support Centre, aimed at creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for employees and managers. The PPSC also celebrated the appointment of 11 of its counsel to judicial positions across Canada. Roussel said that these appointments are “a reflection of the quality of our jurists and of the training we provide to them, day in and day out throughout the Canadian court system.”
Roussel expressed gratitude to the PPSC staff for their hard work and commitment to delivering results for Canadians. “As this is my last annual report, I want to thank the people of the PPSC for a phenomenal 7 years. We have worked hard, obtained results for Canadians, and enjoyed each other's camaraderie in the process,” Roussel said.
The full report is available on the PPSC's website.
