Brian Goodman
June 2nd, 1947 – June 18th, 2013

In Memoriam: Brian Goodman

Sarah’s father, the late Brian Goodman, was Chairperson of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (“IRB”) and an instrumental figure, who helped shape immigration and refugee law and policy both in Canada and internationally.

Brian was appointed as the Chairperson in 2007, after serving on the IRB for six years; first as a decision-maker, then as the Deputy Chair of the Immigration Appeal Division.

Under his leadership, the IRB successfully implemented a number of notable reforms under a new refugee determination system. These include the establishment of a new Refugee Protection Division and Refugee Appeal Division.

In 2009, Brian was elected to the governing Council of the International Association of Refugee Law Judges. This appointment followed his extensive career in law and public service.

Brian was first called to the Ontario Bar in 1974 and held a number of senior legal and executive positions in the Ontario Civil Service. In May 1998, he was appointed as the Executive Lead for the Agency Reform for Ontario’s Ministry of the Attorney General.

In 2000, Brian was awarded the SOAR medal in recognition of his many contributions to the administration of justice.

Sadly, Brian passed away from natural causes on June 18th, 2013. However, his legacy will never be forgotten.