Yellowknife (Aug 25/03) - Judge R. Michel Bourassa has been appointed chief judge of the territorial court, effective Sept. 2.

Bourassa will replace retiring Chief Judge Robert Halifax. The changes were announced Aug. 19 by Justice Minister Roger Allen.

Halifax was appointed to the territorial court (formerly magistrate's court) in 1977, and became chief judge in 1989. His current term expires Sept. 1.

"I want to thank Chief Judge Halifax for his 26 years of dedicated service in the courts, and specifically as chief judge," said Allen.

Bourassa, who has more than 20 years experience on the court, has been appointed to a five-year term as chief judge, ending Sept. 1, 2008.

"I have full confidence that the effective administration of the territorial court will continue under Judge Bourassa," Allen said.

The territorial court hears criminal cases and civil matters, including family matters, child protection and small claims.

Additional responsibilities of the chief judge include assigning judges for court hearings and supervising justices of the peace.