Globe and Mail - Why upcoming supreme court appointments matter

(Chris Manfredi, Dean of McGill University Faculty of Arts): "Appointments to the Supreme Court matter because it is a key component of Canada's policy making structure. The court has always played this role through its common law rule-making power. However, in the almost 30 years since the introduction of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, this policymaking role has been enhanced.

The Charter enhanced judicial policy making by expanding the range of social and political issues subject to the court's jurisdiction. From abortion to language of education to the delivery of health care, every policy choice available to governments is ultimately reviewable and reversible by the court. Canadians need to pay attention to these appointments, and a more regular process of democratic oversight should be implemented."