New Judicial Appointments Announced in Ontario

The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, has announced new judicial appointments in Ontario. These appointments are part of a process established in 2016, which aims to ensure transparency and diversity in the selection of judges.

Appointments:

• Lisa A. Wannamaker has been appointed as a Judge of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario in Lindsay. She replaces Justice D.S. Gunsolus, who became a supernumerary judge in March 2022. Wannamaker previously served as an Assistant Crown Attorney in Peterborough.
• Robin A. Bellows has been appointed as a Judge of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario in Parry Sound, replacing Justice J. Stothart, who will be transferred to Sudbury. Bellows was a sole practitioner in Huntsville before this appointment.

The appointments are part of the government's ongoing efforts to enhance the capacity of the superior courts and improve access to justice for Canadians. The government has created 37 new superior court positions since Budget 2021, with additional positions funded since Budget 2017.

The judicial application process emphasizes the selection of candidates who reflect the diversity of Canada, including increased representation of women, racialized persons, Indigenous peoples, and other groups.