I believe the time has come for the Judiciary to stop the church service as part of the ceremonial opening of the High Court of Justice in September, every year, after the long vacation. This should be replaced by a short ecumenical ceremony at the Hall of Justice prior to the address by the Chief Justice.
Trinidad and Tobago is a secular state and this must be reflected in every way by the arms of government. Our continued adherence to a worn-out colonial tradition does not move us forward as a nation with new hopes and aspirations. I hope this is the last year we shall be having this church service.
Ramesh Persad Maharaj
Port-of-Spain