Renovations to the Garnet Levarity Justice Centre will bring relief to many, said Minister of State for Grand Bahama in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator the Hon. J. Kwasi Thompson on Monday, November 26.

Minister Thompson addressed the gathering on the lawn behind the Justice Centre during the contract signing ceremony. To the tune of just under $2 million, the contact was awarded to Max Quant of Noula Investments Ltd.

The building was originally opened in 1994 by Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II.

When the building was initially opened, said the Minister, “It was also a significant achievement for the FNM government at the time.

“The addition of the two Supreme Courts and additional Magistrate Courts, meant that residents would not have to fly to Nassau for everyday Supreme Court applications, which immediately made it cheaper for Freeport residents.”

As one of the first buildings seen by visitors once leaving the Grand Bahama International Airport, the building has become a landmark. “I remember comments that were made by some organizers of a major international legal conference who did not want to show their international counterparts the place where they practise because it was in a state of disrepair.

“It has also become a source of discouragement for the staff and those who practise there every day. For years, the staff have contended with roof leaks, air-condition issues, moulds, bees and who can forget the deteriorating columns that stand so prominently. Previous attempts were made to correct these issues but were never completed. Earlier this year, staff members expressed their frustration because of the years of neglect.”

Minister of Works, the Hon. Desmond Bannister, along with Parliamentary Secretary Iram Lewis, toured the building and committed themselves to the repairs.

“I’m therefore pleased that this FNM government will commence the largest refurbishment to the court since it was constructed -- renovations to the tune of approximately $2M. This will bring relief to staff members, lawyers, and the general public. In addition, it will bring much needed economic activity to Freeport, creating much needed employment.”

BRINGING RELIEF – A major contract was signed on Monday, November 26, 2018 between the Government of The Bahamas and Noula Investments Ltd., for the renovations of the Garnet Levarity Justice Centre in Freeport. Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator the Hon. J. Kwasi Thompson, said the renovations will bring much relief for many. (BIS Photo/Andrew Miller)

ENJOYING THE CEREMONY – Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, Pakesia Parker-Edgecombe, was on Monday, November 26, present for the contact signing for the renovations of the Garnet Levarity Justice Centre. Also shown are: Rev. Frederick McAlpine, MP for Pineridge Constituency; His Excellency C.A. Smith, non-resident Ambassador of The Bahamas to Panama; former Ambassador Maurice Moore and Mrs. Moore; and Chief Superintendant Loretta Mackey, RBPF. (BIS Photo/Andrew Miller)

By Robyn Adderley