Published on behalf of Judicial Administration.

I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Ms Carol Winker for whom I have the highest regard.

I first met Ms Winker in the early 1980s when I frequently appeared in the courts on behalf of the Crown and she was present to cover proceedings as reporter.

She was always very careful to ensure the accuracy and fairness of her reports and to that end would from time to time ask for clarification of legal points.

That kind of “consultancy” relationship continued between us after I became a judge and I ensured that whenever she felt the need to have clarification on issues that I or another colleague should be available. So high was  the regard with which  Ms Winker was held that she was never denied audience. We were all assured of her objectivity, fairness and dedication to getting the story “right”.    

So reliable were her reports on cases that they came to be cited in Court under the affectionate moniker “the Winker Law Reports”.

She was the consummate professional.

The Judicial Administration will soon be announcing a fitting form of tribute to mark her contributions to the reporting of court proceedings.

Cayman has lost a journalist of the highest order.

May her soul rest in peace and light perpetual shine upon her.

Chief Justice Smellie