Overview
- The chiefs of Nova Scotia’s Supreme and Provincial courts issued a joint statement supporting presiding judges who restrict staff from wearing poppies during proceedings to avoid any appearance of favouritism.
- Courts of Nova Scotia said there is no blanket ban, confirming staff must seek a presiding judge’s permission and stating members of the public are welcome to wear poppies in courthouses and courtrooms.
- Premier Tim Houston called the practice “disgusting” and said he may introduce legislation to guarantee the right to wear a poppy in workplaces, including courtrooms.
- The judges referenced the Canadian Judicial Council’s Ethical Principles for Judges, which advise avoiding statements or visible symbols of support during court to preserve impartiality.
- A national review found most provinces do not expressly bar poppies in court, while Saskatchewan’s 2023 law protects workplace poppy-wearing even as a recent Saskatoon case highlighted courtroom attire remains under judicial control.