October 14, 2003
ROMNEY APPOINTS JUDGE DAHER TO CHAIR ETHICS COMMISSION
Former Chief Housing Court Justice will lead agency with integrity
Praising his integrity and reputation as a “straight shooter,” Governor Mitt Romney today swore in George Daher, the former Chief Justice of the Housing Court, as the new Chairman of the State Ethics Commission.
“In his more than 30 years of service to the Commonwealth both by leadership and by example, Judge Daher has compiled a track record of unblemished integrity and unflinching dedication to the values of honest and ethical government,” Romney said.
He added, “Judge Daher’s courage, his willingness to stand up and speak out about injustice, to cross the political power structure and to take on the insiders make him the best possible choice for this important position.”
The State Ethics Commission, established in 1978, is charged with enforcing the Commonwealth’s conflict of interest laws. The agency also provides free legal advice, education and other information regarding the state’s conflict of interest and financial disclosure laws.
As Chief Justice of the Housing Court from 1978 to 2002, Daher was a tenacious fighter for fairness and equality, consistently raising expectations for government service in the Bay State and working diligently to improve confidence in our public institutions. Daher also served as a judge in the Boston Housing Court, culminating his career with the city as Chief Justice of that court. Before being named to the bench, Daher was a trial lawyer for 13 years.
Recently, Judge Daher served as the hearing officer in the disciplinary case against Superior Court Judge Maria Lopez. Daher was universally praised for his thoughtful and well-reasoned decision in that case.
“Public service is a privilege and an honor and can never countenance any breach of trust or integrity,” said Daher. “The public trust in elected officials and public employees is mandatory if we are to survive as a society. I am honored to serve as Chairman of the Ethics Commission and look forward to working with the other Commission members.”
“The State Ethics Commission is charged with the important task of ensuring that our public officials and employees live up to the highest ethical stands,” said Lieutenant Governor Kerry Healey. “Under Judge Daher’s leadership, the agency will fulfill its dual mission of education and enforcement, I can’t think of a better person for the job.”
The State Ethics Commission consists of five members appointed to staggered, five-year terms. The Governor appoints three of the commission members with the Secretary of State and Attorney General each appointing one member.
Daher, a graduate of Suffolk University Law School, resides with his wife in Westwood.
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