Opposition Spokesperson on Justice Calls for Urgent Action on Infrastructural Issues in Courts
Kingston, Jamaica. July 29, 2024: Senator Donna Scott-Mottley, Opposition Spokesperson on Justice, is calling on the Government to immediately address the deplorable conditions under which the Judiciary and court staff are currently operating.
Recent reports have highlighted severe deficiencies in the St Andrew Parish Court in Half Way Tree and the St Catherine Parish Court in Spanish Town. The bathroom facilities in these courts are in unsanitary conditions, posing serious health risks to staff and the public. These conditions are unacceptable and demand urgent intervention.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court in Downtown Kingston is suffering from a pest and termite infestation. Many departments and offices within the Supreme Court building are without functional air conditioning, forcing workers to endure long hours in oppressive heat. This not only affects their health and well-being but also hampers the efficient functioning of the court system.
“The Opposition is gravely concerned about these persistent issues,” said Senator Scott-Mottley. “Our judiciary and court staff deserve to work in environments that are safe, sanitary, and conducive to their critical roles in upholding justice. The current state of our court facilities is a clear indication of neglect and a lack of commitment from the Government towards the justice sector.”
The Opposition demands that the Government takes immediate action to address these infrastructural issues, including:
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Urgent renovation and maintenance of bathroom facilities at the St Andrew and St Catherine Parish Courts.
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Eradication of pest and termite infestations at the Supreme Court.
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Installation of air conditioning units in all departments and offices at the Supreme Court.
The Opposition stands ready to support any efforts aimed at improving the conditions of our courts. However, the Government must act swiftly and decisively to restore confidence in our justice system and ensure that it operates smoothly and efficiently.
