The Canadian Judicial Council will review a new matter concerning the Honourable Lori Douglas

Ottawa, 20 August 2013 – The Canadian Judicial Council has confirmed that the Honourable Glenn Joyal, Chief Justice of the Court of Queen's Bench of Manitoba, has brought to the attention of the Council certain matters concerning the Honourable Lori Douglas, Associate Chief Justice of that Court. This includes questions about the use of a "representational allowance" by Associate Chief Justice Douglas.

Council takes seriously all allegations of possible misconduct made about Superior Court judges. This matter is now being reviewed by the Vice-chairperson of the Judicial Conduct Committee, in accordance with the provisions of the Complaints Procedures of Council. In keeping with these procedures and the rules of fairness followed in all complaints, the judge has been given an opportunity to make representations about the allegations.

An Inquiry Committee is currently seized with the review of certain other allegations against Associate Chief Justice Douglas. The proceedings of the Inquiry Committee in that case are currently the subject of a judicial review application, before the Federal Court, by the judge.

Once the Vice-chairperson of the Judicial Conduct Committee concludes his initial review in this case, he may dismiss the complaint or refer it to a further step of review in accordance with the Procedures.

Information about the Council, including its Complaints Procedures, can be found on the Council's website at www.cjc-ccm.gc.ca.

Contact: 
Norman Sabourin
Executive Director and Senior General Counsel
(613) 288-1566 ext 302