Like roads and power lines, a functional justice system supports everything else that happens in our communities and our economy. Timely and reliable courts and tribunals must be one of Canada’s competitive advantages, and a reason individuals and businesses choose to invest here.
Unfortunately, Canada’s federal courts have long had insufficient resources to manage growing caseloads. The CBA is encouraged that yesterday’s budget recognized the problem and invested in priorities we have been raising for years. But the funding falls well short of what is needed to meaningfully reduce delays.
A functional justice system must also work fairly for everyone. That is why we welcome the next phase of Canada’s Black Justice Strategy, which aims to improve access to justice for Black communities. It too will need adequate resources to succeed.
The bottom line is this: Our justice system is critical infrastructure and must be resourced accordingly.
