Judicial Independence

Canada's system of government is centred on three separate, yet interdependent, branches: legislative, executive and judicial. Each branch enjoys a necessary degree of independence and autonomy from the other. This independence has, at times, been the source of some dynamic interaction and natural tension. The Canadian Bar Association took the step this year to remind Canadians that judges make decisions according to the law - not to support a given government's political agenda.

The concept that judges make decisions free of political pressure of any sort is fundamental to our system of democracy. While our system serves Canadians well - it is appropriate to emphasize, from time to time, the need to respect the role of each Branch as a way to build public confidence in our institutions.