Annual general meeting of the Canadian Bar Association

Yesterday, Chief Justice Wagner participated in the Annual General Meeting of the Canadian Bar Association, with members of the legal community from across the country.

During his remarks, he shared his observations from 2025 when the Court commemorated its 150th anniversary:

“Over the past year, what I have seen across the country is not fragility, but resolve. We met with passionate members of the legal community who are finding creative ways to improve access to justice with great determination, despite limited resources.

We also met with many Canadians all across the country who are asking questions and who want to understand how justice works. Yes, they are worried about the current climate, but they are engaged. Even in the face of uncertainty and polarization, they continue to demonstrate resilience, curiosity, and a belief in our institutions.”

He also spoke about the work that remains to be done to ensure Canada continues to have strong democratic institutions with respect for the rule of law.

“The CBA has a strong track-record of speaking-up in support of judicial independence and the rule of law. But these troubled times call for even more effort.

I intend to discuss these issues with my colleagues from across the country during a special session of the Canadian Judicial Council in April. We must reflect on how we, as judges, can respond to these challenges while maintaining our neutrality and respecting our duty of restraint.

And this is where you play an essential role. Lawyers, as officers of the court, are in the best position to explain to citizens how the system functions and why its independence is vital. You are also best placed to counter disinformation and call out reckless and irresponsible political interference, often born of ignorance. Your voice carries.”

Photo credit: Blair Gable, Canadian Bar Association