Economic, social development depends on an effective legal system – Chief Justice ECSC

Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Her Ladyship Dame Janice M. Pereira says it is unfortunate that the judicial system is not viewed by many as being an integral part of countries’ socio-economic development.{{more}}

Delivering the feature address at the opening of the 2013 – 2014 law year, via simulcast from the British Virgin Islands on Tuesday, Pereira said the Court has established itself to be a driving force for the region’s socio-economic development.

In her address entitled, “The Role of the Court in the Region’s Socio-Economic Development”, the Chief Justice indicated that the World Bank, for several years, has undertaken studies, which looked at the ease of doing business in various countries around the world, including some of the member states of the OECS, and has provided a ranking of these countries.

She added that among the criteria examined are the protection of the investor and enforcement of contracts.

“The role of the Court in these two areas is pivotal to ensuring investor confidence, as it recognized and accepted foreign investment as a catalyst for our development,” Pereira said.

In recognizing that an effective judicial system is at the core of all social and economic development, she said the Court consistently strives for the achievement of professionalism and excellence in a timely, effective and efficient manner.

Despite the economic hardships faced, Pereira said they have re-affirmed their commitment to the people of the region and noted that they must find creative and innovative ways to live up to their mandate.

“We are aware the Court is too vital an institution for us to sit idly by and watch the times and circumstances determine our faith,” she noted.

“The reality is that the economic and social development depends on an effective legal system, which is just as pivotal to a country’s growth and development as any financial institution,” Pereira stated.