We support this bill because it's a strong way of promoting access to justice through the courts, given the current conditions in the pandemic. Access to justice through the courts is a cornerstone of a fair and democratic society. During previous periods in which COVID-19 was circulating in the community, the virus was largely kept out of our courts. However, that came at the cost of postponing many hearings—particularly jury trials—and also restricting access to the courts. Urgent legislative amendments are needed to remove legal barriers to the judiciary and the Ministry of Justice addressing COVID-19 health and safety risks in our courts. 