MINISTER OF JUSTICE APPOINTS PART-TIME COMMISSIONER OF THE CANADIAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

OTTAWA , April 18, 2005 -- The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Irwin Cotler, today announced the appointment of Harish C. Jain to the position of part-time Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission.

“ Dr. Jain’s experience and expertise in matters relating to anti-discrimination law and policy will be particularly helpful to the Canadian Human Rights Commission in fulfilling its mandate. I am certain that he will serve with distinction,” said Minister Cotler.

Dr. Jain is a Professor Emeritus at McMaster University's DeGroote School of Business in Hamilton . He specializes in systemic discrimination issues and has written extensively on this subject. Professor Jain holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Delhi University, a Master of Business Administration from Indiana University and a Doctor of Philosophy (Industrial Relations) from the University of Wisconsin.  He has published extensively in various well-respected academic publications and has co-authored several books. Mr. Jain is an expert in human rights issues, particularly from an employment law context. He previously served as a panel member of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal from 1986 to 1992 and from 1996-1998, was a member of the National Multicultural Liaison Committee of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, and has worked extensively as a policy and research advisor to the government of South Africa on employment equity and affirmative action issues. In 1999 and 2000, Professor Jain served on the Canadian Human Rights Act Review Panel.

Established in 1977, the Canadian Human Rights Commission is empowered by the Canadian Human Rights Act to settle complaints of discrimination in employment and in the provision of services within federal jurisdiction. Under the Employment Equity Act, the Commission ensures that federally regulated employers provide equal opportunities for employment to women, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. The Commission is also mandated to develop and provide information and discrimination prevention programs.

For more information on the Canadian Human Rights Commission, visit www.chrc-ccdp.ca.

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