Comment:

"Rocco, the Corriere and the Constitution

In some countries, a constitution lives and breathes. It defines any number of relationships. It permeates public discourse. It sets the rules of the game.  

And then there’s Canada.

We never quite accepted the unwritten British constitution. We never mention the French constitution. We never quite accepted the constraints of the American constitution.

Rather than playing by constitutionally driven rules, Canada has created a unique system where everything is either regulated or illegal but permitted or negotiable, until it is not permitted or negotiable. Sort of ersatz British with American trappings.

Enter Rocco Galati.

Rocco plays by the rules and expects others to play by the rules.

Rocco’s attached article in the Corriere Canadese is vintage stuff. Rocco has called out those folks who negotiate things that are not negotiable.

Same with trades worker immigration. Rocco is in court reminding government that the rules were written for reasons other than accommodating government’s magical mystery visa tour.

Rocco’s election as a Law Society Bencher stands as testament that many legal practitioners are concerned with the surreal foundation of public policy.

The Corriere Canadese’s willingness to print Rocco’s position stands as testament that some in the media understand that good public policy relies on public organs that challenge and are open to challenge.

Gentlemen… Mazel tov."

Richard Boraks, February 8 2017