— Premier Pat Binns delivered on another commitment of last fall's Speech from the Throne by initiating today a complete, independent and accountable examination of Prince Edward Island's electoral system.
The Premier announced that retired Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Prince Edward Island, Honourable Norman H. Carruthers, has accepted an appointment to head the Prince Edward Island Commission on Electoral Reform.
"Commissioner Carruthers brings to this assignment considerable skill and experience having, for over twenty years, served on both the Provincial Court and the Supreme Court of Prince Edward Island," stated Premier Binns.
Binns advised that the work of the Commission would begin immediately and its focus would be on consulting with Islanders. He expects an interim report to be submitted in the fall and the Commission's final report completed in 2004.
"I have asked the Commissioner to engage Islanders on the important issue of electoral reform so that the Election Act, associated legislation and the manner in which our Legislative Assembly is selected continues to be relevant and effective."
The Honourable Norman H. Carruthers holds a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Education from Mount Allison University. He received a Bachelor of Law from Dalhousie University and practised law with the Charlottetown firm of Foster, MacDonald, Carruthers. He was appointed to the Provincial Court in 1980 and was subsequently appointed to the Supreme Court of Prince Edward Island in 1985.
Carruthers has been involved with many community organizations, including Rotary and most recently served as the Chair of the Access to Justice Task Force. He and his wife Diana have three children. They reside in Charlottetown.