Nova Scotia’s Justice Department is reducing the number of hours for casual and part-time sheriffs.
Twenty-three of the 190 sheriffs working in the province’s courts will be affected by the reduction, according to department spokeswoman Jennifer Gavin.
“That’s reduced guaranteed hours,” said Gavin. “(Part-time) sheriffs will have the opportunity for relief assignments.”
Gavin cited a 2007 agreement with the sheriffs union that converted some casual positions to permanent status, in order to allow part-time workers to enjoy the status of permanent ones.
Gavin was adamant, however, that the reduction would “absolutely not” put the public at risk. “Our staffing levels will remain in a place that is safe and secure for all Nova Scotians,” said Gavin. “There’s no safety risks whatsoever.”
