LaRocque: Embrace C’bean Court of Justice

Member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are once again being encouraged to make the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) the final court of appeal for the region.

The call has been issued from Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque who outlined that the CCJ has already shown its worth while pointing to last year’s landmark ruling on the Shanique Myrie case.

“There can be no doubt of the Court’s ability to render well thought out and reasoned judgements that can stand the scrutiny of its most ardent detractors. The CCJ is an integral edifice in the regional architecture as designed within the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. But arguably, even more important, the Court in both its jurisdictions represents the essence of our independence and sovereignty and is essential to the progress of the integration movement. It is an institution that has proven its worth and I look forward to the day when all our Member States accede to both its jurisdictions,” he stated.

He made the comments while speaking to the full Court at a Special Sitting in honour of the Honourable Mme Justice Desiree Bernard who is retiring from the CCJ, and stressed that no better tribute could be paid to her than for all the Member States of CARICOM to accede to the Court in both its Original and Appellate Jurisdictions.

“The work of Mme Justice Desiree Bernard has enriched the legal and social fabric of our Community and, for that, we express our most heartfelt gratitude. The wealth of knowledge and expertise which reside in you, Mme Justice, I am certain will not be lost to the Region as I wish you all the best in this new phase of your life,” he added.