Chief Justice Williams addressed members of the legal fraternity in Court at 2.15pm on Friday. 
Accompanied on the bench by Court of Appeal Justices Barker and Smillie, Chief Justice Williams delivered a speech concerning the new Court facilities and Appeal Court procedures (see speech).
Present in Court were the Associate Minister for Justice, Eugene Tatuava, secretary for Justice Terry Hagan, President of the Law Society Tim Arnold, Vice President of the Law Society Puai Wichman, Solicitor General Janet Maki, Chief Justice of the Peace, His Worship John Kenning and 12 lawyers.
In his speech the Chief Justice touched on the passing away of Tere Mataio and there was a moments silence in remembrance. The Chief Justice also announced to formation of the Committee for the improvement of administration of Justice in the Cook Islands, to be headed by Lawyer Charles Little.
Following the speech, Tim Arnold spoke on behalf of the Law Society. He welcomed the members of the Court of Appeal and recounted the history of the site of the Court house. He said the Cook Islands had been highly blessed over the years with the high calibre of Judges. He said the Society welcomed comments regarding case management.
In reply, the Chief Justice said he was encouraged by the remarks made and felt the partnership between the bench and the bar will flourish.
Speaking to the Times after the speeches, Charles Little said he would be meeting with the Chief Justice next week to discuss the new Committee. Little said there was a need to develop a better process for handling appeal cases so as to avoid delays.- Charles Pitt