|
October 16, 2003
The sixth and last Boyer lecture given by Chief Justice Murray Gleeson is concerned with the independence of the judiciary, its accountability, and its role in upholding the Constitution.
In this lecture citizenship makes a belated appearance. Gleeson says:
"The rule of law depends upon the impartial administration of justice according to law. Citizens, in the last resort, look to courts to uphold their rights, and to enforce their lawful claims against other citizens, or against governments. Governments look to the courts to enforce the obligations of citizens, and to restrain - and, where necessary, punish- unlawful behaviour. In a nation with a written Constitution, the courts have an additional function, which is to uphold the Constitution."
There one moment gone the next. Gleeson turns his attention to law making and so picks up on, and addresses, concerns about the politics of the High Court and conservative criticisms about judges making policy.
to be continued.
previous
|
