Judicious progress

The government of the day is not moving far enough or fast enough for some in opening up the appointment of Supreme Court judges (2 open right now). But they are moving: or appear to be. The most recent announcement, captured in MPs will scrutinize nominees for Supreme Court, at the G&M, paints a story of interesting "consultation" of MPs -- but not much else. Here's the snip:

After intense negotiations, House leaders for the parties have reached an agreement on how to hold the hearings. . . The hearing before a panel of MPs and legal advisers will be televised tomorrow, sources said. . . . But the two new judges will not appear before the ad hoc committee to answer questions about their background and legal expertise. Instead, Justice Minister Irwin Cotler is expected to appear before the first-ever hearings into Supreme Court appointments. . . The process is a compromise designed to satisfy the legal community . . . The Prime Minister will retain the power to name judges and the panel cannot overrule his choices.

. Mountains will become plains, but -- even with the help of a friendly earthquake -- not over night.

Posted by Grayson at August 24, 2004 07:15 AM