Thank you very much, Madam Chair.
Thank you so much, everyone.
Before I begin, let me thank Ms. McTeer and Monsieur Giroux for their participation in the process that has led to today, where I am honoured to be here before you in support of the Honourable Glenn Joyal, who has been nominated to the Supreme Court of Canada.
Chief Justice Joyal is an exceptional jurist. I'm confident in his capacity to uphold the highest of standards in all facets of the position. It includes thoughtful contributions to the evolution of law, exceptional service to our country, dedication, professionalism and ethical excellence.
I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Chief Justice Joyal, and I look forward to his appearance before parliamentarians later today.
The purpose of the appointment of Chief Justice Joyal is to fill the position that became vacant following the retirement of the Honourable Sheilah Martin.
Justice Martin, if you're listening, thank you for an incredible run of service to our country. Canada is better for your many varied contributions.
The timely appointment of outstanding candidates is essential to the proper functioning of our highest court, and I continue to strive to ensure that these two essential aspects are upheld.
The Supreme Court appointment process has two main components: the selection process and the Independent Advisory Board on Supreme Court of Canada Judicial Appointments.
I will begin by providing an overview of the two components, after which we will hear from Maureen McTeer, chairperson of the advisory board, who has agreed to share her perspective with us.
I want to begin by highlighting the importance of the Supreme Court appointment process generally and our unique role. Today we're taking part in the crucial work of upholding public confidence in the administration of justice. Trust in our judges is essential, as is confidence in the integrity of the process by which they are selected.
This is now the seventh time this process has been used following its introduction in 2016. The Prime Minister launched the current process on March 30 of this year, with the application period closed in late April. Suitable candidates would be jurists of the highest calibre who not only demonstrate superior knowledge of law and analytical skills but are also aware of and sensitive to the social context in which legal disputes arise. Commitment to public service, respect and consideration for others, and irreproachable personal and professional integrity are key.
The independent advisory board was also charged with ensuring that recommended candidates were functionally bilingual and reflective of the diversity of Canadian society. In accordance with the well-established custom of regional representation on the Supreme Court, this selection process was advertised as open to all qualified applicants from western and northern Canada.
Charged with rigorously assessing candidates based on public qualifications and assessment criteria, the non-partisan independent advisory board is at the heart of the selection process. The board's eight members, including the chair, reflect Canada's diversity and bring their varied backgrounds and viewpoints to the ultimate goal of identifying the best candidates. This esteemed group of Canadians includes government nominees as well as those put forward by a range of other organizations committed to serving Canadians by upholding the rule of law.
Madam Chair, I had some additional time that I was contemplating, but I do want to save space for others.
Is it five minutes for each? Okay.
Perhaps I will take the opportunity to give the floor to Ms. McTeer. To the extent that there is a moment at the end to conclude, I would be grateful for the opportunity.