Thank you, Speaker. The ANC believes that many South Africans, in particular the poor, interact with the judiciary system at their local courts. Therefore more resources should be allocated to lower courts so as to improve their capacity and accessibility.
Hence the ANC welcomes the opening of the R220 million court at Palm Ridge on the East Rand, which includes a children's court, a court to deal with domestic violence and a family court. In addition, a brightly coloured witness protection room allows minors testifying in sexual offence cases to do so from behind darkened glass in order to protect their identity.
The building of courts in communities and townships helps in reducing the backlog in the courts. Also, residents of Alberton, Palm Ridge and Thokoza will spend less time travelling to court and can access the judicial service with ease.
The ANC commends the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development for continually bringing service closer to the people, especially service that helps to alleviate violence and crime against women and children. I thank you.