NEW CHIEF CORONER APPOINTED

Released on June 18, 2004

Robert Kent Stewart has been appointed Chief Coroner for Saskatchewan effective July 1st, 2004.

Mr. Stewart comes from the Coroners Service of the Government of British Columbia where he was the Manager of the Medical and Child Death Review. He has had 22 years of experience in the field of death investigation, including senior managerial positions. He has also been a regional coroner in British Columbia, a medical investigator in Alberta and was Chief Coroner for the Yukon from 1993 to 1999. Stewart has a Diploma in Nursing, has taken courses in Forensic Archeology and Death Investigation, and is a member of the International Association of Forensic Nurses and the National Association of Medical Examiners.

"I'm pleased that an individual with Mr. Stewart's background has accepted this challenging position within the Department of Justice," Justice Minister Frank Quennell said. "The experience he brings will be an asset to both the Justice department and province of Saskatchewan."

Stewart will replace Dr. John Nyssen who is retiring on June 30th, 2004, after nine years as Chief Coroner.

"Dr. Nyssen has worked very hard throughout his nine-year career and made a valuable contribution to this province and his profession," Quennell said. "I am grateful to him for his dedication to the effective administration of Justice in Saskatchewan."

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Andrew Dinsmore Justice Regina Phone: (306) 787-8606