Update in the review of a conduct matter involving the Honourable Michel Girouard

Ottawa, 22 October 2013 – The Canadian Judicial Council announced today that a complaint into the conduct of the Honourable Michel Girouard has been referred to a Panel of three judges for further review.

In accordance with the Complaints Procedures of Council the complaint about Justice Girouard was considered by the Honourable Edmond Blanchard, Vice-Chairperson of the Judicial Conduct Committee of Council. After considering all the available information, including the judge's response to the allegations, Chief Justice Blanchard has decided that this matter warrants further consideration and has consequently referred the matter to a Review Panel comprised of two Council members and another judge. 

Referring a matter to a Review Panel is one of the options available to the Council as part of the early remedial stages of the complaint process. It is important to note that no conclusions have yet been drawn in regards to the allegations put forward in the original complaint. The Panel will now review the matter and will decide if the file should be closed or whether other measures should be taken. The judge will have the opportunity to provide additional comments. 

Council takes the review of complaints about a judge's conduct seriously and treats every complaint in accordance with its Complaints Procedures. Information about the Council and its work to foster public confidence in the judiciary 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