February 24, 2004 (Ottawa): The Order in Council defining the terms of reference for the Commission of Inquiry into the Sponsorship Program and Advertising Activities was issued on February 19, 2004. Mr. Justice John H. Gomery was named Commissioner under Part I of the Inquiries Act. He will conduct an independent public inquiry into questions surrounding the government's sponsorship and advertising activities as outlined in the Auditor General's report released on February 10, 2004.

In accordance with the authority conferred by the terms of reference, Justice Gomery has appointed Sheila-Marie Cook to act as Executive Director and Secretary of the Commission. Mrs. Cook will now begin to set up the Commission's offices and operations in Montreal and Ottawa.

Justice Gomery has appointed Bernard A. Roy, Q.C., to act as lead Counsel to the Commission. Mr. Roy is a senior partner at the Montreal firm of Ogilvy Renault. He will begin immediately to prepare for the Commission's legal, research and investigative activities.

Mr. Justice Gomery has also appointed Neil Finkelstein as Co-Counsel to the Commission. Mr. Finkelstein is a senior partner at the Toronto firm of Blake, Cassels & Graydon. His experience in public law matters will be of great value to the Commission.

For further information contact:

Sheila-Marie Cook
(613) 992-1834