Word of Welcome from the Chief Justice of Canada

"Canadians are privileged to live in a peaceful country. Much of our collective sense of freedom and safety comes from our community’s commitment to a few key values: democratic governance, respect for fundamental rights and the rule of law, and accommodation of difference. Our commitment to these values must be renewed on every occasion, and the institutions that sustain them must be cherished. Among those institutions, I believe that Canadian courts, including the Supreme Court of Canada, play an important role. A strong and independent judiciary guarantees that governments act in accordance with our Constitution. Judges give effect to our laws and give meaning to our rights and duties as Canadians. Courts offer a venue for the peaceful resolution of disputes, and for the reasoned and dispassionate discussion of our most pressing social issues. Every judge in Canada is committed to performing this important role skillfully and impartially. Canadians should expect no less."

Photo: The Rt. Hon. Beverley McLachlin, P.C., Chief Justice of Canada
Credit: Roy Grogan, photographer, SCC Collection