A collective of legal professionals in Alberta, including ex-provincial justice ministers, is raising alarms over recent government actions that they argue are eroding democratic safeguards and the rule of law. Over 30 lawyers and articling students in the Camrose area have endorsed an open letter addressing these concerns and urging Albertans to protect democratic institutions.
Verlyn Olson, a Camrose lawyer and former MLA for Wetaskiwin-Camrose who also served as Alberta’s justice minister, and Ken Rostad, another former justice minister, are among the signatories. The letter criticizes various recent government moves, such as changes to citizen-initiated petitions, frequent use of the notwithstanding clause, and legislation limiting the Law Society of Alberta’s oversight of a justice minister. Additionally, it takes issue with the premier’s public criticism of the courts.
Olson voiced objections to Bill 14, which grants immunity from law society sanctions to Alberta’s justice minister, who also acts as attorney general. He emphasized the importance of accountability for ministers and the potential risks of unchecked government power.
The legal professionals argue that these actions undermine governmental integrity and the mechanisms in place to safeguard citizens’ rights. They stress the necessity of imposing limits on governmental authority to prevent the infringement of individual liberties.
Justice Minister Mickey Amery defended the government’s actions, stating that they aim to enhance democratic processes, reinforce public trust, promote participation, and ensure fairness in procedures while upholding the rule of law.
One of the signatories, Camrose lawyer Ian Smith, expressed particular concern over the government’s utilization of the notwithstanding clause, citing it as a critical issue. While recognizing its constitutional legitimacy, he cautioned against setting a precedent that could jeopardize fundamental rights in the future.
Camrose criminal defense lawyer Sydney Palmer, another signatory, emphasized that the notwithstanding clause should only be utilized as a last resort to protect the fundamental principles of equal rights and the rule of law.
The legal professionals underscore that these concerns transcend political affiliations and emphasize the importance of upholding the rule of law and democratic checks and balances to ensure the effective functioning of a democracy.