By Canadian Press

Backlogged justice system can’t return to pre-pandemic ways, chief justice warns

Jun 16, 2022 | 8:05 AM

OTTAWA — Canada’s chief justice says the legal system must continue to modernize and innovate, warning it cannot return to pre-pandemic ways of doing business.

At a news conference today, the Supreme Court of Canada’s Richard Wagner says all players in the justice system are reassessing what they do, how they do it, and how effectively they meet the needs of the people they serve.

Wagner insists access to justice is not just a fundamental right or a service, but above all a basic human need and an essential ingredient of democracy.

He acknowledges meeting the expectation of timely justice is a big task, especially with so many courts facing backlogs and delays.

Wagner says this is why a committee on court operations in response to COVID-19 continues to meet even as the pandemic eases.

GST Holiday

Federal government's two-month GST holiday begins

2h ago

Imminent need

Council set to discuss possible location for homeless shelter on 15th Street

7h ago

International Spotlight

P.A.'s Howe one of 4 Sask. born players named to Canada's World Junior roster

23h ago

The committee recently drafted a document for judges and court administrators with practical suggestions to deal with matters faster and more effectively.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 16, 2022.

The Canadian Press