Remarks by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien
on the occasion of the Design Unveiling of the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Building

December 2, 2003
Ottawa, Ontario

Today is a proud day for me and for all Canadians as we gather to unveil the plans for Canada's new federal justice building – the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Judicial Building.

Pierre Elliott Trudeau was a brilliant lawyer and statesman who worked tirelessly to make Canada a better place. We owe him much gratitude for the strong reputation we now enjoy as a country devoted to fairness and to the rule of law. He endlessly promoted Canada on the international stage, and raised the profile and stature of our country to that of a global leader.

Pierre Elliott Trudeau shaped our modern legal system with a power and a passion unmatched by any other public figure of our time. He was fearless in championing his vision of a just society – a society that affords all of its citizens an equal opportunity to succeed in life, whatever their background or beliefs, whether rich or poor. He believed that what we have in common is a source of our strength, and what sets us apart enriches us all.

As Minister of Justice under Lester B. Pearson, he was responsible for removing laws from the Criminal Code of Canada that violated human rights, famously remarking, "The state has no business in the bedrooms of the nation." As Prime Minister, he patriated the Canadian Constitution from the British Parliament to Canada, and gave us the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

As you know, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms has had a profound impact on our nation in advancing civil rights and civil liberties, and has become a deeply respected symbol of Canada and Canadian values.

Pierre Trudeau once said "Through justice, we shall defend our values, our order and our laws. Through justice, we shall rid ourselves of perversion and terrorism. Through justice, we shall recover our peace and our liberty." It is a fitting tribute, therefore, that this magnificent complex, this place of justice, shall forever bear the name of Pierre Elliott Trudeau.

Thank you very much.

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