Guilty!

Court Upheld Judiciary Council Decision – Rick Boucher is suspended for 3 years

The Honourable Justice M.A. Binder released the decision in relation to Rick Boucher and the decision of the Métis Judiciary Council.

Rick Boucher appealed the decision of his suspension based on the following issues:

1. Is the Métis Judiciary Council a public or private body?

2. What is the appropriate scope and standard of review?

3. Is there a reasonable apprehension of bias?

4. Was the Métis Judiciary Council properly constituted?

5. Did the Métis Judiciary Council act reasonably in refusing the adjournment request on November 25, 2007?

6. Is the substance of the decision subject to review, and if so does it meet the appropriate standard?

In spite of the fact that in February Trevor Gladue reported in Métis Matters that “…Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) Member Mr. Rick Boucher vindicated in the Court." The Court ordered the Métis Judiciary Council (MJC) decision be stayed concerning Mr. Boucher's membership after evidence was presented that MNA President Audrey Poitras and the MJC Chair had ignored the principles of procedural fairness and rules of natural justice.

Justice Binder upheld the decision and dismissed Rick Boucher’s appeal. No vindication...We will submit more details on this news as they become available but in all elements of the above appeal – the Judge ruled in favor of the Judiciary Council and the principles and institutions that Métis people in Alberta set up in their quest for accountable elected leaders and organizations.

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