(CMR) Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale was sworn in as Cayman's first female Chief Justice this afternoon, 25 October. Justice Ramsay-Hale takes over from Justice Hon. Chief Justice Sir Anthony Smellie who retires today.
Governor Martyn Roper said it was a historic occasion to swear in the first woman to hold the post in the Cayman Islands.
“Chief Justice Ramsay-Hale is an outstanding appointment warmly welcomed across our islands. I know she impressed the JLSC with her commitment, ambition, and vision to take the administration of justice in our islands to a new level,” Governor Roper stated.
Mr. Roper said the appointment of Justice Ramsay-Hale “is a sign of the quality of the judiciary on our islands that the JLSC made an appointment from the bench in Cayman.”
An emotional Justice Ramsay-Hale could not hide her emotions as congratulations and praises of her hard work came from speakers representing various organizations at the swearing-in ceremony.
“My biggest thanks is to the people of these islands. The public's response to my appointment has been nothing short of extraordinary. It has been warm; it has resonated with confidence. The only thing i hope is that I don't disappoint,” Chief Justice Ramsay-Hale said.
“I am so grateful to the people of Cayman for the way they have embraced the news of my appointment,” she added, promising to stand by the oath she has taken to serve the people of the Cayman Islands as Chief Justice without fear or favor.
The new Chief Justice also used the opportunity to laud outgoing Chief Justice Smellie for his contributions over the years.
She also expressed her appreciation for her husband and children, who supported her throughout her career.
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