Barbara Gayle, Justice Coordinator

KINGSTON, Jamaica:
Supreme Court judge Lloyd Hibbert is urging the Government to urgently make resources available to enable the courts to handle the impending volume of cases that will come with the abolition of preliminary enquiries.

Speaking at the opening of the Easter Term of the Circuit Court today, Justice Hibbert said, come next term it is anticipated that the number of cases before the circuit court will further increase.

Justice Hibbert said that 525 cases have been scheduled for the new term and noted that 513 of them were carried over from the Hilary Term which ended in March.

The judge pointed out that funds have been allocated for the appointment of additional judges but said the lack of adequate facilities is delaying the appointments.

He also said it is taking far too long to make available additional courtrooms and other facilities available.

Meanwhile, Hibbert is encouraging all stakeholders in the justice system to play their part to ensure there is a smooth flow in the administration of justice.

He said it is untenable when a matter comes before the circuit court and a judge is told that preparations are still ongoing.

Hibbert said the police have a responsibility to ensure that cases are properly investigated and prepared in a timely manner.

He further said prosecutors must also ensure that cases are ready for trial before they are placed on the trial list.

FOR MORE STORIES WATCH: The Gleaner Minute


Like our new Facebook page:
Gleaner Jamaica

Follow us on Twitter:
@JamaicaGleaner

onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com