Advancement of Women Halton was shocked to hear Premier Ford’s rant regarding judges in Ontario. We wholeheartedly support the words of Ontario’s 3 Chief Justices and the statement of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association.
From Ontario’s Chief Justices:
Every Canadian has the constitutional right to have their legal issues decided by a fair and impartial judiciary. Our justice system is founded on public confidence that decisions, whether popular or not, are fully heard and fairly made. It is crucial that the judiciary is both actually independent and appears to be independent so the public can be confident that judicial decisions are made without bias.
Full statement is here:
Shakir Rahim, Director, Criminal Justice Program, Canadian Civil Liberties Association made the following statement:
Premier Ford’s comments that judicial independence is a “joke” and judges do not have legitimacy because they are unelected are deeply alarming.
Respecting the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law is necessary for a fair criminal justice system in Canada, and protects all of our rights and freedoms.
The fact is that bail in Ontario is more difficult to obtain than ever. Around 80% of the people in Ontario prisons have been denied bail and are awaiting trial.
The CCLA repeats its call for the federal government, alongside the provinces and territories, to collect comprehensive data about the bail system. Policy and law reform must be based on sound evidence, not soundbites.
Advancement of Women Halton 