Is the Charter Changing Canada for the Worse?

1. Although Roy Romanow played a crucial role in the signing of the Charter in 1981,
today he questions the effect it is having on Canadian society. He is worried that the
charter undermines Canadas longstanding communitarian values while promoting
individualism. As a result, he feels that certain vital Canadian establishments like
national healthcare, the Quebec pension plan and Canadian pension plan were at
risk. Essentially, Romanow believes that the charter places too great an emphasis
on individual rights and freedoms thus creating a more individualistic self centred
society.

2. a) Romanow sees charter kids today as a more individual orientated generation

that does not value Canadas communitarian impules as much as the previous
generation. Instead, this group tends to approach and judge various issues based
solely on how it will effect them.

b) Judges play a vital role because they weigh in on various cases and ultimately
effect the law directly. As societal values change, judges must alter laws to fairly
represent these changing values. As a result, the judges create a more
individualistic society as they respond to the changing values of the charter kids

3. a) Romanow points out to the 2005 Supreme Court ruling that overturned the
provinces ban on the purchase of private healthcare for public services.
b) Many believe that the ruling on this case will allow the integration of private
health care in Canada while ushering out the current nationally funded program.
Instead of the free health coverage Canadians enjoy, a more American system will
take its place. In addition other societal programs like the Canadian pension plan
may be at risk.

4. Personally I disagree with Romanows opinion that the Charter is pushing

Canadian society towards individualism. To begin with, I believe that his view that
Canadians today are self centered is incorrect. Canadians have proven their
unselfish attitude time and time again through their care for domestic and
international issues. Whether it be foreign aid or charitable donations, Canadians
have shown that they care about more than just themselves. Secondly I disagree
with Romanows belief that the charters emphasis on individual rights poses a
threat to national healthcare. Our medical system is a source of great pride and is
valued as a fundamental aspect of society. Although cases like the 2005 Supreme
Court ruling may pop up from time to time, I find it hard to believe that Canadians
will be in favour of scraping public health for privatization. Contrary to Romanows

view, I believe that the charters focus on individuals rights protects citizens and
ensures Canadas multicultural nature is preserved. By enshrining the fundamental
right to freedom of conscious, religion and speech, the charter ensures justice and
equality for all. In conclusion, I disagree with Romanows belief that the charter is
creating an individualistic, self centred society. Instead, the charter does a good job
of balancing the needs of the individual and the needs of society.