APPOINTMENT of a new principal magistrate Tearo Beneteti will assist and add strength to the work of the Magistracy to provide justice.

Speaking during the swearing in of the new principal magistrate, Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer said the work of a Magistrate is not going to be easy.

“It requires strength and courage on your part and commitment to your duty statements and oath to do right to all manner of people after the laws and usages of Solomon Islands, without fear or favour, affection or ill will.

“And it is for that very reason you have been selected and entrusted with the responsibilities of not only protecting and maintaining the independence, reputation and integrity of the Courts in the Country but that you will also be able to deliver justice timely, fairly and impartially, Justice Palmer told the newly appointed Magistrate yesterday.”

Justice Palmer said Ms Beneteti has been appointed based on her outstanding performance as a legal officer and her sense of commitment to duty and understanding of what it takes to be a judicial officer.

“Her appointment has not been made lightly for we are only too familiar with the rough and tumble in the work of a Magistrate, the daily demands and strains of having to make decisions on almost a daily basis which affects the lives of offenders, including whether to impose a penalty or not.

“I can assure you that you will not be left alone to struggle in the dark but we will endeavour to ensure that you are properly equipped from the outset with the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes to carry out your duties well as a Magistrate.

“The Judges and other colleague Magistrates I am sure will be only too willing to assist as and if consulted,” Justice Palmer said.

Justice Palmer also said that as the Courts’ doors open for the New Year 2017, the appointment of the new principal magistrate is timely and will improve access to the courts for the people.

Meanwhile, Chief Magistrate John Numapo also welcomes Ms Beneteti in joining the magistracy and said that she will be based at the Central Magistrates Court in Honiara.

With her joining the Magistrates Court, the number of magistrates has now gone up to 12, in which there are now nine principal magistrates and three second class magistrates.

He further adds that other development in the Magistracy is that PM Jim Seuika will be transferred to Gizo this year while PM Ricky Iomea, who has been based in Gizo, will be posted back to Honiara, so is PM Edwin Saramo from Auki who will replaced with another magistrate.

“It is my intention to move magistrates around the country every 2-3 years so that they do not stay too long in one place which might make their jobs difficult,” Chief Magistrate Numapo said.