News Release                              For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                         July 14, 2009

New Response to Young Offenders Under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act

A new Informal Diversionary Program for first-time young offenders of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act (SFOA) was launched July 1, across Grey Bruce. Developed in consultation with the Grey County Crown Prosecutor, the new program offers youth, under age 16, the option of completing 20 hours of community service as an alternative to courts, where appropriate.

Parents often incur the burden of the fines resulting from a conviction; this program holds the youth committing the offenses accountable for their actions. The Tobacco Enforcement and Education Officer will work with the youth and the parent/guardian, offering the option of community service at a designated facility; partnerships to date include the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, Cape Croker Administration office and the Grey Bruce Health Unit. The youth are given a reasonable time to complete the community service hours. The youth would also be able to use the community service hours toward the 40 hours required for completion of their Ontario Secondary School Graduation Diploma.

If the youth is unwilling to participate, or if at the end of the allotted time the youth has made no effort to complete their community service hours, the Officer will proceed with the charges and request that the courts pursue the minimum fine of $250.00 plus court costs. Charges may be laid up to six months after an offence is committed.

Each year, approximately 15-20 young offenders are issued charges and must attend youth court. This new program provides an intervention to help direct young people on a more positive path. 

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For more information:

Alen Hawes

Tobacco Enforcement and Education Officer

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 1478