The Hon. (Mrs.) Thushari Jayasingha, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, the judiciary is one of the three main pillars of governance and the primary institution for upholding the rule of law and order. Rs. 58.5 billion is allocated to the Ministry of Justice and National Integration.

¶ 02 With such allocation, we expect justice to be delivered and the rule of law upheld. The Minister explained allocations—court buildings, staffing, establishment of High Courts, District Courts, and the Preliminary Inquiry Courts. As practitioners, we know preliminary inquiries are vital, but we lack sufficient courtrooms to conduct them separately; we need the physical facilities.

¶ 03 If we can properly conduct preliminary inquiries in long-pending cases, many matters can conclude faster. We also have quasi-judicial mechanisms that can reduce court burdens—mediation boards, for instance, where by consent many disputes can be resolved without years in court. Strengthening such institutions with awareness and funding will reduce workloads. Decisions there can be enforced via summary procedures if a party defaults.

¶ 04 Much has been said about facilities for judges. The judiciary is independent. We hear crocodile tears now about judges’ children’s schooling upon transfers. We understand what is really being implied. The judiciary is impartial and independent, now freed from past pressures. You cannot influence the courts; those days are gone.

¶ 05 On delays in court records: we are improving through digitalization and other facilities. Do not forget there was a time when courts lacked paper, and litigants were asked to bring sheets to get copies. Those who ruled then now decry delays. Today, matters generally proceed; barriers are far fewer.

¶ 06 As I said at the outset, the Rs. 58.5 billion aims to reduce delays. Once passed, let us proceed to uplift the justice sector without hindrance.

¶ 07 Thank you.