Some are wondering why it takes so long for Occupational Health and Safety to wrap up investigations into incidents where charges are laid.

A former Crown prosecutor says going down to the wire—often taking the two years to lay a charge—makes it difficult for everyone involved.

Mike Murray says the delay makes it more difficult to prosecute cases as things change. Laying the charge is only the first step as more time then passes before the case goes to court.

“I mean that’s four years and that’s pretty hard on the families, especially if there’s a fatality involved,” said Murray. “It seems to be the standard length of time no matter whether it’s a simple incident or a complex industrial accident. These delays can have an effect on the outcomes of the cases.”