The Caribbean Court docket of Justice (CCJ), headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago, is grieving the lack of two esteemed former justices, with each their deaths occurring inside days of one another.
The CCJ introduced at the moment the passing of Justice Michael de la Bastide, the courtroom’s first President. Justice de la Bastide’s stewardship steered the Court docket via its early life till his retirement in 2011.
A stalwart of the authorized enviornment, he transitioned seamlessly from a profitable personal observe to serving as Chief Justice of Trinidad and Tobago, earlier than assuming the helm of the CCJ.
Justice de la Bastide’s illustrious profession was marked by accolades, together with Trinidad and Tobago’s prestigious Trinity Cross. His affect prolonged past borders, with an appointment to the Privy Council and his pivotal function in shaping Caribbean jurisprudence.
In his memoir, “Throughout the Legislation, Memoirs of a Caribbean Jurist,” Justice de la Bastide encapsulated his ethos: “Be illiberal. Be illiberal of incompetence, inefficiency, and inertia.”
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His legacy resonates via his dedication to justice and tireless pursuit of authorized excellence.
Tribute to Justice Désirée Bernard
The CCJ additionally mourns the lack of Justice Désirée Bernard, a pioneering determine within the Caribbean authorized panorama.
As the primary girl to carry a number of esteemed positions in Guyana’s judiciary, she shattered glass ceilings and blazed trails for future generations.
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Becoming a member of the CCJ Bench in 2005, Justice Bernard’s affect was profound. Her dedication to advancing ladies’s rights and her contributions to Caribbean jurisprudence are unparalleled.
Justice Bernard’s humility and kindness endeared her to colleagues and mentees alike, leaving an indelible mark on the authorized neighborhood.
A legacy of excellence
Each Justice de la Bastide and Justice Bernard go away behind a legacy of excellence and integrity.
Their contributions have left an indelible mark on the Caribbean authorized panorama, inspiring future generations to uphold the ideas of justice and equality.
