Judges praised for working through COVID-19

Judges were today praised for continuing to work in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health restrictions, as independent Senator Kevin Boyce highlighted their contribution to the unbroken rule of law.

The lawyer told the Upper Chamber he was pleased to see the judicial system still functioning when he rose to speak on a bill to amend the Stamp Duty Act.

Senator Boyce said: “During this COVID period the rule of law continued in this island unabated. We are quick to criticise and quick to make commentary about what is not being done so perhaps we should also be quick to give kudos when things are actually moving forward.

“I can personally attest to the fact that court cases continued via a variety of platforms, either via Zoom some judges were doing it via teleconference. The Registry and the judges of this nation should be commended for getting on with the business of justice. How this was done was through an acceptance that there could not be any restriction on the resolution of these issues during the period when you were confined to your premises.”

The Senator said that while all matters could not be heard before the courts, those cases that were heard were conducted in a professional manner.

Senator Boyce said: “During this period the communication was certainly different but the end result was that matters were being heard, and being discussed and being resolved as far as practical. This is not to say it applied to all matters. There were some matters that were adjourned, some that were simply pushed forward. But what we were able to see the ability of the courts to get on with the business of the nation and the fact is everyone was willing to play their role in supporting in that exercise.” (IMC)