November 29, 2007

My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of the Right Honourable Antonio Lamer, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada.

Justice Lamer was a respected member of the legal profession who had tremendous respect for individual freedoms and was a staunch defender of human dignity. He firmly believed in the principle that the rule of law is the foundation of Canada’s legal system. He fundamentally changed the course of our country’s legal and constitutional history. Among other things, he played a key role in creating the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982. He also provided a legislative framework for recognizing the rights of First Nations that are recognized by the Constitution. More importantly, he affirmed the supremacy of the Constitution and established the power of the courts to monitor the constitutionality of laws.

Rideau Hall enjoyed the great pleasure of maintaining close ties with Justice Lamer. My predecessors benefited from his sage advice. They appreciated his distinguished performance of his duties as deputy Governor General, chairman of the Advisory Council of the Order of Canada, and honorary colonel of the Governor General’s Foot Guards.

On behalf of all Canadians, we extend our most heartfelt sympathy to his family and his many friends. May his achievements continue to guide Canada for a long time to come.

Michaëlle Jean

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Media information:
Marie-Eve Létourneau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-0287
www.gg.ca
www.ecoutedescitoyens.gg.ca