Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you, Minister, for being here, and Mr. Xavier and Ms. Bellis.
In looking at the report of the fourth quadrennial commission on judicial compensation, which was released on October 12, 2012, and particularly, even in the introductory remarks of a 48-page report, I note that in reference to quotations from the P.E.I. reference case, it's very clear that Chief Justice Lamer was speaking for the court in saying:
The compensation commissions must have a “meaningful effect on the determination of judicial salaries”. Thus, while the report of a compensation commission need not be binding, at a minimum the responsible legislative or executive authority must formally respond.
It then goes on to say that if recommendations are not accepted, the government of the day should be prepared to give reasons why. But it is very clear from that Supreme Court of Canada case that the ultimate decision on judicial compensation remains, under our Constitution, with the government. Would you agree with me, Minister?