That's an excellent question, and in line with earlier discussion. Justice Kent is abundantly aware of this because she does it every day.
We have to make a clear distinction between advocates and educators. We can't hear from advocates on either side because that just wouldn't be our role as it applies to being independent, but we need education.
As far as things changing, Mr. Kelloway from Nova Scotia will be interested in this. When I was chief justice, we brought our judges to the African Nova Scotian community and asked the community what it's like for them to go to court. How many bus transfers does it take to get from Preston to court? It's a $50 cab ride. Cabs won't come to their community. Maybe if they're late for court we will better understand the challenges they face.
We've met with the Mi'kmaq community. We are trying to find that balance where we remain independent. We don't hear from advocacy groups. We hear from educators, from elders and from people who understand. We explain to them about judicial independence.
Things have really changed in the 24 years I've been on the bench. I think we are moving in the right direction.