FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator the Hon. Kwasi Thompson congratulated the Bahamas Industrial Tribunal for accomplishing something which many others have not – holding a virtual hearing conducted in New Providence and in Grand Bahama at the same time.

“You ought to be commended, because you took what was a tragedy (the destruction of the old court by Hurricane Matthew, and the delay of the new court because of Hurricane Dorian) and brought us all together,” said Minister Thompson, during the concurrent opening of new Bahamas Industrial Tribunal premises in Grand Bahama and New Providence on Friday morning, October 2, 2020.

The new court in Grand Bahama is located in the Freeport Insurance Center.

The opening in Grand Bahama was held simultaneously – virtually -- with the opening of the offices in New Providence, at Saffrey Square, Bank Lane.

Minister Thompson said, as the Minister responsible for digitization, as well as having worked as a practicing attorney, he was delighted to hear of the Tribunal’s innovative milestone: “Your strides in digitalization is consistent with the government’s overall digital transformation, which is improving efficiencies in the Supreme Court, Passport Office, Social Services and the Cabinet Office, and the ease of conducting business with the general public.”

Minister Thompson pointed out that with the new facilities comes an array of smart court services available in Grand Bahama, inclusive of electronic case management system. He added that the Industrial Tribunal is to be especially recognized and commended for introducing an electronic filing system.  “The ease of filing documents on line, as well as the ability to hold virtual hearings, will now allow this court to significantly reduce in-person interactions to an absolute minimum,” added Minister Thompson. “This is especially timely as we continue to fight the Covid-19 pandemic nationally.

“As the government of the Bahamas continues its work to reform the public service and drive our nation forward in its continual technology advancement, we congratulate the Bahamas Industrial Tribunal in being a pace-setter in digitization.

“Let me take this opportunity to congratulate the president, Her Honour Mrs. Indira Demeritte-Francis, vice-president, Her Honour Mrs. Helen Almorales-Jones, and the staff for their dedicated service in rebuilding this location,” said Minister Thompson. “You again epitomize the spirit of rebuilding Grand Bahama.”