John D. McCamus reappointed Chair
Published: October 27, 2016
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The Government of Ontario has reappointed John D. McCamus as Chair of the Legal Aid Ontario Board of Directors for another two years, effective September 28, 2016.
Mr. McCamus was called to the bar in 1973 and has been LAO’s Board Chair since July 2007.
Over the course of his career, Mr. McCamus has made many contributions to the advancement of access to justice and human rights, while wearing a surprising number of hats-lawyer, teacher, legal scholar, visionary, and tireless champion of civil liberties and reform initiatives.
After nine years as LAO’s Chair, John’s contributions to improving the legal aid system in Ontario and the justice system more broadly continue to mount. His intellectual strength and broad range of interests, combined with superb communication skills, a remarkable talent for diplomacy and a genuine interest in hearing what other people have to say have made him the ideal ambassador for legal aid. These qualities have been instrumental in helping LAO build bridges and produce partnerships with a wide range of stakeholder groups and diverse communities.
“I have had the privilege of working closely with John for several years,” says LAO’s CEO and President David Field. “In addition to his many other accomplishments, he may truly be called the architect of the modern-day legal system. Under his direction, Ontario’s legal aid system has made tremendous strides in increasing its capacity, effectiveness and public support.
“I have never failed to be impressed by John’s unflagging dedication to the law and to improving access to justice for low-income, vulnerable and disadvantaged Ontarians. I am very pleased that John has been reappointed for another two-year term, and I look forward to working with him.”