Good morning to all who have joined us for the opening of this new court complex.
In the near future, many families will receive fair consideration, equitable solutions, and balanced remediation of their circumstances here in this complex.
When we talk about strengthening the justice system, we often talk about the criminal justice system, but we must never forget the many ways that justice can be delivered. Certainly, for many families who find themselves navigating tragedies, disputes, and custody arrangements, there is a vested interest in expanding the capacity of our courts to see more cases and speed up the process by which they receive justice.
The family unit is the basic building block of our society. When families thrive, societies thrive. Conversely, when families struggle, when they are not supported, and when they are disenfranchised, that is when we see social decay and communities in decline.
So, we must invest heavily in protecting our families and facilitating justice on their behalf.
If this complex can help to protect a child, support a mother, or provide a fair arrangement for a father seeking to be in his child’s life – if this complex can deliver these outcomes at a faster pace thanks to our expanded capacity, then this investment will have been worth it.
Across our court system, we are making major investments to expedite justice for all Bahamians. As they say: justice delayed is justice denied. We must redouble our efforts to minimise unnecessary delays in our court systems.
“Swift Justice” has been a buzzword in The Bahamas for well over a decade, and while there has been important progress made over the years, we cannot let up until every family, every victim, and every person who enters the doors of a courtroom in The Bahamas can say that justice was administered fairly and swiftly.
I am confident that this ambitious goal can be realised. If we want to fulfill our potential as a nation, we must realise this goal.
The courts have such a fundamentally important role to play in our society.
It is through our courts that precedents are set and case law is interpreted, which may guide decisions and define what justice looks like for years to come.
We must do all we can to ensure that the Judiciary, as a branch of government, has the resources it needs to carry out its mandate and expand access to justice.
In opening the doors of this Family Court Complex, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles of justice and dignity. The decisions made in these courtrooms will undoubtedly change and improve lives.
We aspire to uphold the highest standards of justice. The goal is for those who come before these benches to be met by judges who are both caring and knowledgeable. Families will be supported by social workers and legal advocates who understand the gravity of their situations.
Having this modern, dedicated space to hear matters of importance to families is a huge step forward that should be celebrated.
I know there were many who advocated for this day for quite a number of years. Your words did not fall on deaf ears.
We heard you, and this complex is a product of, not just the government’s dedication to justice, but your advocacy and agitation as well.
Together, we can ensure that our families—your families— are supported, empowered, and protected.
Thank you.
May God bless the families of our nation.