This was during a special sitting in the High Court here, where Justice Perriera and several other justices will be presiding over the appellate court this week.

Among those congratulating the new court boss were High Court justice Jennifer Remy, Attorney General Justin Simon QC, Dane Hamilton QC, Sir Gerald Watt QC, Sir Clare Roberts, Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Anthony.

Armstrong, president of the Antigua & Barbuda Bar Association (ABBA) Arthur Thomas, and the lone female Queen’s Counsel E Ann Henry, who received the esteemed appointment last Friday.

Justice Remy said she felt “immense pride and joy” that her dream that the court would one day be led by “the fairer sex” is now a reality.

“My dream was based on the legitimate expectation that, based on the growing number of women being appointed to the bench, it was only a matter of time before a female would be elevated to the bench,” Justice Remy said.

The ajudicator said the new chief justice has a bedrock of experience having served as registrar, magistrate, attorney in private practice specialising in criminal, civil and corporate law, High Court judge and then justice in the Court of Appeal.

“Your experience, coupled with your erudition, your graciousness and amiable personality, makes you eminently qualified to be our commander in chief,” Justice Remy added.

She also said Chief Justice Perriera achieved greatness as a result of her diligence, dedication and commitment to the administration of justice which has been exemplary.