Mr. Speaker, this is a matter of principle that has to do with protecting the independence of the judiciary. If the member asks this kind of question again, I will repeat the same answer.
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Justice May 4th, 2005
Mr. Speaker, this is a matter of principle that has to do with protecting the independence of the judiciary. If the member asks this kind of question again, I will repeat the same answer.
Justice May 4th, 2005
Mr. Speaker, as I have said, I will have no part of a process aimed at casting aspersions on the independence or the excellence of the judiciary. Appointments are based on merit. I have no interest in knowing candidates' political affiliations or views.
Justice May 4th, 2005
Mr. Speaker, I have already said it several times and I will say it again today. No appointments are made on the basis of political associations.
I repeat as well that complaints should be brought before the Canadian Judicial Council, which can look into it. That is all.
Justice May 4th, 2005
Mr. Speaker, I do not think that the Leader of the Opposition is prepared to take yes for an answer. There is an independent peer review process in place. We make appointments on the basis of merit and we will continue to make appointments on the basis of merit. If members of the opposition want any other process, that is their choice. We will base our process on merit.
Justice May 4th, 2005
Mr. Speaker,--
Justice May 3rd, 2005
Mr. Speaker, what erodes public confidence in the administration of justice in the judiciary is any kind of guilt by unfounded association, any kind of trafficking in innuendo, and drive-by smears. We will not indulge in those things before the House.
Justice May 3rd, 2005
Mr. Speaker, if there are allegations of corruption, the police can be contacted. The Gomery commission is proceeding. Another process can be launched. However, I do not want to start interrogating people solely on the basis of allegations.
Justice May 3rd, 2005
Mr. Speaker, what is unacceptable is to tarnish the reputation of excellence of the judiciary. I will have no part of it.
Justice May 3rd, 2005
Mr. Speaker, I understand that the hon. member has filed a complaint with the Canadian Judicial Council. We should let the council do its work.
Justice May 2nd, 2005
Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier, I want no part in tarnishing the reputation of the judiciary. I have heard that the member has filed a complaint with the Canadian judicial council. We will await the results of this complaint. However, I do not want to take part in sullying our judiciary's reputation for excellence.