CANADA latest news

Statement by the Prime Minister on the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan

December 13, 2017
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement marking the birthday of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan:

“Today, we celebrate the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims – a community that includes tens of thousands in Canada and millions around the world.

“The Aga Khan is a global humanitarian leader dedicated to the promotion of pluralism and peace. He is an inspiration to millions, including myself.

“I often say that Canada is stronger not in spite of its differences, but because of them. For half a century, the Aga Khan has shown that about the world.

“His Highness has worked tirelessly to reduce poverty, promote diversity, and advance gender equality, particularly in developing countries. He is a beacon of compassion and acceptance, who has always stood by those most vulnerable.

“In recognition of his noble work, he was named an honorary Canadian citizen and an honorary Companion of the Order of Canada. I am proud to call His Highness both a friend and a mentor. Canada and the world are stronger and richer because of his commitment to diversity and inclusion, and to finding common ground.

“Today, Sophie and I thank the Aga Khan for all that he has done to help those in need, and wish him continued health and happiness for years to come.”

Statement by the Prime Minister on the first day of Hanukkah

December 12, 2017
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement today marking the first day of Hanukkah:

“At sunset today, Jewish communities in Canada and around the world will welcome the beginning of Hanukkah – one of the oldest traditions in the world.

“For eight nights, families and loved ones will celebrate the Festival of Lights by lighting the candles of the menorah, one by one. Together, they will pray, sing, enjoy food, and share stories of hope.

“Hanukkah is a time to honour the profound strength of the Jewish people, and their triumph over immense adversity. Each Hanukkah candle reminds us that love conquers hatred, that light drowns out darkness, and that even our smallest actions have the power to make a difference in the world.

“This year, we have marked 150 years of Confederation – a chance to celebrate the many cultures, traditions, and beliefs that help make Canada such a wonderful place to live. Jewish Canadians have made significant contributions to our communities and our country, and continue to make Canada inclusive, open, and strong.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a happy and peaceful Hanukkah.

“Chag Hanukkah Sameach.”

Prime Minister names the Honourable Richard Wagner as new Chief Justice of Canada

December 12, 2017
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the Honourable Richard Wagner as the new Chief Justice of Canada.

Justice Wagner was called to the Quebec Bar in 1980 and practiced law until being appointed to the Quebec Superior Court in 2004. He sat in the Civil Division, the Commercial Division, and the Criminal Division of the Quebec Superior Court until 2011 when he was appointed to the Quebec Court of Appeal. He was first appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court on October 5, 2012.

Following current Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin’s retirement on December 15, Justice Wagner will take the oath of office as Chief Justice and be sworn in as a member of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada on December 18.

The Chief Justice fosters collegial decision-making on the Court, holds many leadership and administrative responsibilities, and represents the Canadian judiciary at home and abroad. Before choosing the Chief Justice, the Prime Minister consulted with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the outgoing Chief Justice, and other leading members of the Canadian legal community.

Quote

“It is an honour to name the Honourable Richard Wagner as the new Chief Justice of Canada. I have the utmost confidence in his ability to lead the highest court of Canada, an institution with a long and respected history of judicial independence and excellence. The judiciary, the legal profession, and all Canadians will be well served by his dedication to upholding the laws and Constitution upon which this country is founded.”
— Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

• The Supreme Court of Canada consists of nine judges, including the Chief Justice.
• The Chief Justice presides over all sittings of the Court when they are present and oversees the work of the Court by designating the panels of judges who hear the cases and motions brought before it.
• In addition to their Court duties, the Chief Justice serves as chairperson of the Canadian Judicial Council, whose members include the chief justices and associate chief justices of the federal and provincial superior courts, the senior judges of the territorial superior courts, and the Chief Justice of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada.
• The Chief Justice also chairs the committee that advises the Governor General on awards of membership in the Order of Canada and the Board of Governors of the National Judicial Institute, which develops and delivers various educational programs for judges in Canada.
• Should the Governor General die, become incapacitated, be removed, or be absent from the country for a period of more than one month, the Chief Justice would also become the Administrator of Canada and exercise all the powers and authorities of the Governor General.

Biographical Notes

• The Honourable Richard Wagner

Associated Link

• Supreme Court of Canada

Reminder - Itinerary for Wednesday, December 13, 2017

December 12, 2017
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Wednesday, December 13, 2017:

Ottawa, Ontario

10 a.m. The Prime Minister will attend the National Caucus meeting.

12 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend the Centennial Flame lighting ceremony and deliver remarks.

Centennial Flame
Parliament Hill

Note for media:

• Open coverage

2 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend Question Period.

5:45 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend a candle lighting ceremony in celebration of Hanukkah and deliver brief remarks.

Railway Committee Room, 253-D
Centre Block
Parliament Hill

Note for media:

• Open coverage

7 p.m. The Prime Minister will deliver remarks at the National Liberal Caucus holiday party.

Canada Hall
Shaw Centre
55 Colonel By Drive

Notes for media:

• Media should arrive no later than 6:30 p.m. at the main entrance of the Shaw Centre
• Open coverage for remarks only
• Itinerary for Wednesday, December 13, 2017
  
  December 12, 2017
  Ottawa, Ontario
  
  
  Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Wednesday, December 13, 2017:
  Ottawa, Ontario
  10 a.m. The Prime Minister will attend the National Caucus meeting.
  12 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend the Centennial Flame lighting ceremony and deliver remarks.
  Centennial Flame
  Parliament Hill
  Note for media:
  • Open coverage
  2 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend Question Period.
  5:45 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend a candle lighting ceremony in celebration of Hanukkah and deliver brief remarks.
  Railway Committee Room, 253-D
  Centre Block
  Parliament Hill
  Note for media:
  • Open coverage
  7 p.m. The Prime Minister will deliver remarks at the National Liberal Caucus holiday party.
  Canada Hall
  Shaw Centre
  55 Colonel By Drive
  Notes for media:
  • Media should arrive no later than 6:30 p.m. at the main entrance of the Shaw Centre
  • Open coverage for remarks only