Former BC Attorney General Wally Oppal says he believes some court delays caused by the shortage of judges could also be helped by rule changes.

Last Monday, BC Supreme Court's family and civil chambers was cancelled for the first time in 35 years because no judges were available. Oppal suggests having more chambers matters dealt with in writing, rather than orally -- but says he expects any change will be difficult.

"The lawyers have to get onside because, I know that when we amended the Supreme Court rules when I was Attorney General, there was huge push back from the lawyers. So, I think this is something that everybody in the system has a stake in, and we all need to get together on any changes."

The federal Liberal government has been accused of taking too long to appoint judges, thanks to a new system aimed at increasing diversity on the bench. Oppal -- who was the first Indo-Canadian superior court judge in Canada -- says the diversity factor is important, because the judiciary should reflect what Canada looks like.

Guest: Charmaine de Silva - CKNW Reporter

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