The Hon. Ajith P. Perera

¶ 01 Please give me a little time, Hon. Speaker; we will take it from our party’s time. This is important.

¶ 02 When courts are established far away from the main court complex, without adequate access to counsel, it becomes difficult for lawyers and prejudices justice. As a former practitioner, you know this. Lawyers manage multiple cases in a day; dispersing courts far away creates practical problems for victims, accused, and the Bar. Therefore, since the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal have returned to their original premises, use the vacated buildings for these courts, or relocate the Commercial High Courts.

¶ 03 Another important matter concerns maintenance cases and child access. There is no power to compel DNA testing. In maintenance or divorce/access disputes concerning paternity, DNA testing is the most reliable method. However, under the current Maintenance Act, Civil Procedure Code and Evidence Ordinance, courts cannot compel samples. I am not saying compel in every case, but where paternity is at issue, the child, mother or the alleged father should be able to obtain DNA testing through proper legal provision. I propose legal reform to that end.

¶ 04 With that, while supporting the Judicature (Amendment) Bill, I caution that unless we address these practical issues, results will not follow.

¶ 05 Thank you.