Edmond Blanchard facts for kids

Edmond P. Blanchard was an important Canadian judge and politician. He was born on May 31, 1954, and passed away on June 27, 2014. He was known for his work in both law and government.

Early Life and Education

Edmond P. Blanchard was born in Atholville, New Brunswick, a town in New Brunswick, Canada. He went to Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. There, he earned two degrees: a Bachelor of Commerce in 1975 and a Bachelor of Laws in 1978. After finishing his studies, he worked as a lawyer in Campbellton, New Brunswick. He continued this work until 1987.

Political Career

In 1987, Edmond Blanchard decided to enter politics. He was elected to the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick, which is like the provincial parliament. He was a member of the Liberal Party. In that election, the Liberal Party won every single seat in the legislature!

Becoming a Minister

In 1989, Blanchard joined the government's top group of officials, known as the cabinet. He became the Minister of State for Mines, which meant he was in charge of mining-related matters for the province.

After being re-elected in 1991, he was given even more important roles. He was appointed Minister of Justice, overseeing legal affairs. He also held several other important jobs within the government.

Finance Minister

Blanchard was elected for a third time in 1995. This time, he was given a very important job: finance minister. As finance minister, he was responsible for managing the province's money and budget.

Considering Leadership

Edmond Blanchard was well-liked and spoke both English and French fluently. His success as finance minister made many people think he would be a great leader for the Liberal Party. In 1998, he thought about running to become the leader after Frank McKenna. However, he eventually decided not to run for the leadership position.

Judicial Career

Blanchard continued his role as finance minister even after Camille Thériault became the Premier of New Brunswick (the head of the provincial government). He was re-elected to represent his home area of Campbellton, New Brunswick in 1999.

Becoming a Judge

After serving briefly in the parliamentary opposition (the group of politicians who challenge the ruling party), Blanchard was appointed to a very important position. In 2000, he became a judge on the Federal Court of Canada. This court deals with many different types of cases involving the Canadian government. Soon after, he also joined the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada. This court hears appeals from military trials.

In 2003, the Federal Court of Canada was divided into two separate courts: the Federal Court and the Federal Court of Appeal. Blanchard took a seat on the Federal Court, while still keeping his position on the Court Martial Appeal Court.

Chief Justice

In 2004, Edmond Blanchard became the Chief Justice (the main judge) of the Court Martial appeals court. He also became a member of the Canadian Judicial Council. This council is a group that helps judges in Canada and works to make sure the justice system runs smoothly. He served on committees that focused on educating judges and making sure judges acted properly.

Later Life and Death

Edmond Blanchard served as a member of the Canadian Judicial Council for almost ten years. He passed away on June 27, 2014, after a short illness. He was 60 years old.