NLIS 5
April 20, 2005
(Justice)
(Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs)
Supreme Court Judicial Centre
officially opens in Happy Valley-Goose Bay
Today marked a monumental occasion for courts and
aboriginal people in the province, with the official opening of a new courthouse
for the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
"It is a proud day for the courts, province and people of Labrador. I am pleased
to be a part of the official opening and the dedication of the hearings room,"
stated Minister Tom Marshall. "The new Supreme Courthouse is a strong testament
of years of hard work and collaboration. Labrador has its own unique legal
history which is reflected in the judicial centre with the design encompassing
many concepts which support the unique cultural aspects of Labrador and the
aboriginal culture."
The new courthouse will provide residents of Labrador with a state-of-the-art
judicial facility. The Judicial Centre of Happy Valley-Goose Bay is located on
Hamilton River Road adjacent to the town hall. The facility houses the Supreme
Court of Newfoundland and Labrador and features a courtroom, jury room,
registry, justice�s chambers and secretary�s office. The state-of-the-art
facility incorporates concepts which are a first in the province, including an
aboriginal healing room, and circle motif in the courtroom reflecting openness
to aboriginal traditions.
Tom Rideout, Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs says, "This new
courthouse shows a true sensitivity to the aboriginal peoples of our province
and the cultural diversity of Labrador. I am pleased to take part in today�s
opening and our government is hopeful that this new courthouse will serve as
another link between the various cultures of our province."
Minister Marshall unveiled a commerative plaque marking the official opening.
The ceremony also included the ceremonial opening of the courtroom, the opening
and dedication of a hearings room with blessing and prayers from the Innu,
Inuit, M�tis and settler communities.
"It was extremely moving to have the participation and support of aboriginal
groups. We must remember that courts are public facilities, and a reflection of
fair, accessible justice for all residents of the province. Today�s opening was
a great day for justice and I was honoured to participate in the opening of this
great judicial centre," added Minister Marshall.
Media contact:
Heather MacLean, Justice, (709)729-6985, 690-2498
Lori Lee Oates, ABC, Aboriginal Affairs, (709) 729-3015, 690-8403
2005 04 20
12:05 p.m. |
