The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable John Hogan, QC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General:

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I am very pleased to acknowledge the induction of Mr. Derek Hogan as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers.

Widely considered to be the premiere professional organization for lawyers, the American College of Trial Lawyers is composed of the best trial lawyers in Canada and the United States. Fellowship in the college is extended by invitation only after extensive vetting to trial lawyers who have been marked by the highest of standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, civility and collegiality.

A 30-year veteran of the Legal Aid Commission, Mr. Hogan is one of the most respected lawyers in the province and has been instrumental in bringing about major changes to the justice system. In 1995, Hogan appeared before the Supreme Court of Canada arguing his client’s Charter rights were breached by a weekend stay in custody. Days after his win, Provincial Court instituted weekend court.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all Honourable members to join me in congratulating Mr. Hogan. He is a shining example of the great expertise within the Legal Aid Commission, our public service and the legal profession.

Thank you.