Hugh MacIntyre has an interesting blog about judicial appointments where he notes:
"Of the 66 judges who donated before their appointments, 41 gave to the Conservatives, 14 contributed to the Liberals, another 10 gave to both parties and one contributed to the NDP.
Yes, the numbers are overwhelmingly Conservative, but it does not appear that potential judges are being rejected because of their political affiliation. Thus it seems the outcry against the judicial appointment process is exaggerated."
http://tinyurl.com/yjun3hw
It's a fair point but the real issue isn't what "Big P" politics a judge has as much as the "small p" politics. Are they concerned about people or process? Are they principle or rule oriented? There are very fair minded, principle governed Conservatives, Liberals and NDPers -- and there are some narrow minded, rule bound others of all parties.
1 comment:
I think it is time for the Libs. to put up or shut up.
Both Martin (while he was PM) and Dion warned that the Conservatives as a government would appoint judges with a hidden right wing agenda. Did they do that?
If so name them.If not they owe us (Canadians) an apology.
It is one thing to be cynical about the process but it is another to be a leader of a major political party and hold such views.
From where I sit there is a curious stat.If any lawyer wishes to become a judge one day then they must first at some point donate to a political party. Only 2-3% of Canadians donate to political parties yet it seems a vast majority of judges have.This is not a coincidence.
If I were as cynical as Dion and Martin I would use it as proof that lawyers are seeking future favours with their donations to political parties.If I were to express that view here I would be rightfully chastised or ridiculed.Dion and Martin for their similar views get a free pass.
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