New boat provides access to justice for Temotu communities

Court officers will have faster and easier access to remote communities in Temotu Province, thanks to a new boat handed over to the National Judiciary by the Australian High Commission.

The boat will support circuit courts in Temotu – a service where judges and court officers travel around a region, rather than requiring participants to come to where the court usually sits. 

The initiative is part of a broader collaboration under the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership. 

Through the partnership this year, Australia has delivered a boat and engine for Gizo, serving Western and Choiseul Provinces, and a boat engine for Kirakira, serving Makira Province. 

These boats help to ensure that access to justice is not limited by geography, and that Solomon Islanders who live in remote and outer island communities can have their rights protected under the justice system.

Acting Australian Deputy High Commissioner, Lindsay Buckingham, spoke at the handover and acknowledged the leadership of the Hon. Chief Justice, Sir Albert Palmer, as well as the National Judiciary’s strong commitment to advancing access to justice.

“Circuit courts play a vital role in bringing judicial services closer to the people. However, the challenge of transportation between remote islands often hinders the movement of judicial officers and delays access to justice,” Ms Buckingham said.

“This is why the provision of boats for circuit courts is so critical.”

Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer welcomed the support, saying “Access to justice is a constitutional right. This boat will help ensure that even our most remote communities can receive timely judicial services. 

“We thank Australia for supporting this important initiative.”

Breaking down barriers that remote communities face in accessing justice is an important step in strengthening the overall justice system – which in turn supports the continued stability and development of Solomon Islands.

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AHC statement