A coalition of legal professionals in Alberta, which includes two former provincial justice ministers, has raised concerns about recent actions taken by the Alberta government that they believe are eroding democratic safeguards and the rule of law. Over 30 lawyers and articling students from the Camrose region have signed an open letter addressing these issues and calling on Albertans to defend democratic institutions.
Among the signatories of the letter are Verlyn Olson, a Camrose lawyer and former MLA for Wetaskiwin-Camrose, as well as a former Alberta justice minister, and Ken Rostad, another former justice minister. The letter highlights various recent government decisions, such as changes to citizen-led petitions, frequent use of the notwithstanding clause, and laws restricting the Law Society of Alberta’s ability to discipline a justice minister. It also criticizes the premier’s recent public remarks on the judiciary.
One specific concern raised by Olson is regarding Bill 14, which grants immunity from sanctions by the law society to Alberta’s justice minister, who also serves as the attorney general. Olson emphasized the importance of accountability for all ministers, stating that such protections undermine the system. He stressed the need for limitations on governmental actions to protect citizens’ rights and prevent potential abuses of power.
Responding to these criticisms, Justice Minister Mickey Amery defended the government’s actions, stating that the province is dedicated to enhancing democratic processes and maintaining public trust through legislative measures that promote fairness and safety while upholding the rule of law.
Ian Smith, a lawyer from Camrose and a signatory of the letter, expressed particular concern over the government’s use of the notwithstanding clause. While acknowledging its constitutional validity, he warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, potentially jeopardizing individual rights in the future. Sydney Palmer, a criminal defense lawyer from Camrose who also endorsed the letter, emphasized the importance of using the notwithstanding clause only as a last resort to uphold the principles of equality and justice for all.
Smith emphasized that these issues transcend political affiliations, noting that the group of lawyers who signed the letter represents diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Regardless of political leanings, they share a common concern for upholding the rule of law and maintaining democratic checks and balances in the interest of a functioning democracy.
