Should Judges be Elected?

Presented by Hart House Debates Committee

Folly or Democracy in Action?

The topic for the debate will be:
"Be it resolved that Canada should elect its judges"

Details: On February 8, 2012 we hosted a fantastic evening of spirited debate and conversation with the Hon. Mr. Justice Ian Binnie (retired) and former member of Parliament Ian Waddell on the topic “Be it resolved that Canada should elect its judges.” Part of the Hart House Debate Committee’s first annual Alumni Debate and a NorthAms co-programming event, Binnie and Waddell were joined by two law students – Richard Lizius and Anisah Hassan – as they argued either for or against the issue. The formal debate took place in the historic Debates Room at Hart House, followed by a reception.

Speaking in favour of the motion (The Government team):
Ian Waddell (Alumnus – Victoria College Class of 1963, Law Class of 1967)
Richard Lizius (Student - Victoria College Class of 2011, Law Class of 2013)

Speaking against the motion (The Opposition team):
Hon. Mr. Justice Ian Binnie (retired) (Alumnus – Law Class of 1965)
Anisah Hassan (Student – Law Class of 2013)

About the Speakers:

Hon. Mr. Justice Ian Binnie (retired) is a former puisne justice of the Supreme Court of Canada.

Ian Waddell is a former member of Parliament for both Vancouver Kingsway and Port Moody‐Coquitlam, as well as a former member of the provincial cabinet of British Colombia.

Richard Lizius and Anisah Hassan are second year students at U of T Law and are among Canada’s finest student debaters.