A few years ago, we initiated judicial mediation. We have two experienced judges doing this every day in each of Edmonton and Calgary. Judicial dispute resolution has proven to be very successful and popular. For example, in Calgary last year, the court conducted 216 mediations. We have instituted many other initiatives to provide more judicial assistance to litigants, and to speed up the litigation process.
Case management is another one.
At the request of a counsel or party, a judge can be appointed to manage the progress of a file. It is crucial that we never forget that the judiciary must be independent of government. It must also be seen to operate at arm s length from government. Public opinion comes and goes. It is the job of elected officials to take public opinion into account and reflect the wishes of its constituents in the laws they enact.