The first phase of the preliminary Desmond fatality inquiry has adjourned.
We spoke to Adam Rodgers, the lawyer representing Desmond’s family and estate.
He says applications have been heard for those seeking standing in the inquiry. That includes personal representatives of Desmond, doctors who treated him, and veterans.
Furthermore, Rodgers tells The Hawk he’s made an application for extended funding to cover family legal fees.
“Some of the more recent inquires, they’ve sat for 50 days of hearings, over many months, with 12 000 documents produced.”
Currently 150 hours have been allocated by the province, which Rodgers says is only about three weeks of work, and he says that likely won’t be enough time.
“It’s going to take a lot more effort than that to properly prepare and advocate on behalf of the family.”
He says the family is pleased to get the inquiry started.
Up next for the inquiry is creation of witness lists, including factual and expert witnesses.
