René Basque, president of the Canadian Bar Association issued the following statement:
"On behalf of the Canadian Bar Association, I congratulate Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin on the announcement of her retirement.
As the longest serving chief justice and the first woman to hold the position, Justice McLachlin has shown an unwavering commitment to the rule of law and access to justice in Canada.
The Supreme Court under Justice McLachlin has made ground-breaking decisions that have shaped the development of the law and Canadian society.
Ever the collaborative jurist, she is known for finding consensus on the court and fostering cordial and collaborative relationships with the profession.
Over the years she has been a popular speaker at CBA events, offering wisdom, insight and humour to our members.
We will miss Justice McLachlin’s intellect, her grace and her dedication to the law. We wish her well in her retirement and hope she won’t be a stranger in future."