Companion of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: November 15, 2000
• Invested on: February 28, 2001

He has had a major influence on the evolution of justice. Driven by an exceptional level of energy and enthusiasm, he made his mark early, first as a judge in Quebec, then as Chairman of the Law Reform Commission of Canada, where he had a hand in court reform in Canada and several other countries. As Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, he distinguished himself through his efforts to strengthen judicial impartiality and independence. He is also known as a man of vision, an administrator beyond compare and a great defender of individual freedoms, rights of the accused and minorities.