Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton has released the following statement today:

“The appointment of Joyce DeWitt-Van Oosten, QC, and Catherine Murray, QC, to the B.C. Supreme Court is well-deserved recognition of their superior legal talents. Both are experienced prosecutors with the Criminal Justice Branch of the Ministry of Justice.

“As assistant deputy attorney general, Ms. DeWitt-Van Oosten demonstrated unwavering commitment to improving our criminal justice system. Under her leadership, the Criminal Justice Branch has earned praise from Murray Segal, former Ontario deputy attorney general, who reviewed B.C.’s prosecution service and concluded it is a ‘champion of change’ and leader in innovation, collaboration and efficiency.

“Ms. Murray is widely acknowledged to be one of the best cross-examiners in the profession, and participated in, or led, many difficult and high-profile criminal prosecutions, including the murder of Reena Virk.

“The appointments of these accomplished women as justices of the Supreme Court are testament to their remarkable legal careers, including leadership within the ministry. The people of British Columbia will be well-served by their elevation to the bench.

“I also congratulate former B.C. Supreme Court Master Heather MacNaughton of Vancouver, who is also appointed justice of the B.C. Supreme Court. She served for 10 years as chair of the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal and is widely-regarded for her work in human rights.”