Richard Borreca’s column (“Harsh spotlight of federal investigations leave Hawaii squirming in the hot seat,” Star-Advertiser, On Politics, Feb. 24) makes the case for a strong and independent Judiciary in Hawaii.

Borreca cites lawsuits that were required to reform Hawaii’s prisons, comply with federal law on students with special needs, and protect the environment.

There have been many lawsuits against the government to recognize the civil rights of the people, respect Native Hawaiian rights, and protect the environment.

Without a strong and independent Judiciary, these rights would be ignored and violated and the environment harmed.

It is unfortunate, but my experience as a civil rights attorney and judge is that government often must be brought to court to be held accountable and required to comply with the Constitution and the law it enacts and is bound to enforce.

Daniel Foley

Kailua

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