The Opposition takes note of the report that Cabinet has given approval for the Ministry of Justice to undertake certain initiatives to enhance the efficiency of the higher courts and the prosecutorial arm of the system of the administration of justice.

Opposition Spokesman on Justice, A.J. Nicholson said "We welcome the announcement which we see as an attempt to move forward on the Jamaica Justice System Reform Programme that was developed and placed on the table towards the end of the last administration. However, it would be most unfortunate if this announcement turns out to be just another empty promise and the raising of hopes on the part of the government."

The Opposition notes another recent report that the government already faces real challenges in respect of compensation packages for resident magistrates and other categories of officers within the justice system.

Mr. Nicholson said "In light of that situation, and circumstances in the country generally, the public needs to be assured that funding is in place for the provision of more judges to serve in the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal, an appreciable increase in the number of prosecutors in the system and additional courtrooms at the Home Circuit Court, as announced by the Ministry of Justice."

The Opposition wishes the public to be aware that there is no provision in the current Budget to cover these proposals. The public is entitled to be advised of the projected costs, assuming such an estimate had been arrived at and presented to Cabinet, and where the funding is to come from to meet these costs.

Mr. Nicholson said "We do not wish for the Justice System Reform Programme to be used as a platform for gimmickry of any kind."

Contact:
A.J. Nicholson
(876) 978-1337
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