GG swears in new court official and JPs

Barbados has a second Master of the High Court.

Heather Clarke, the former Registrar of Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office, officially took up the post today after being sworn into office by Governor General Dame Sandra Mason in a brief ceremony observed by Chief Justice Patterson Cheltenham.

The Master of the High Court is mainly responsible for case management. Clarke will serve as the intermediary between the registrar and judges and has the same jurisdiction as a High Court Judge, but cannot sit in open court. She briefly signalled that she was ready to get to work.

“I see this as another step in my profession, and I will do my best as I’ve always done. I’ve always worked hard and will continue to do so,” Clarke said. 

From left, Chief Justice Patterson Cheltenham, New Master of the High Court Heather Clarke and Governor General Dame Sandra Mason at today’s ceremony.

Meanwhile, three new Justices of the Peace also took the oath of office before the Governor General.

There are Evril Lewis-Browne, Angelia Sharif, and Warren Mottley.

Dame Sandra congratulated the new JPs, and advised them that a Justice of the Peace has a very significant and serious role to perform in assisting members of the public. She also encouraged them to take their oath seriously.

Justices of the Peace are recommended by Members of Parliament. They are appointed by a Warrant, issued by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister.

The new JPs told  reporters they were honoured to serve their country. (BT/BGIS)