Justice Minister, Senator Mark Golding, says his ministry is to renew discussions with the Jamaica Constabulary (JCF) aimed at improving the security of judicial officers including prosecutors.
He gave the update in a statement yesterday in which he condemned Wednesday’s attack on a deputy director of public prosecutions as she arrived at the Spanish Town Courthouse in St Catherine.
Arising from the incident, DPP Paula Llewellyn, called for greater security to be put in place to protect prosecutors and support staff.
The Justice Minister says the government owes it to prosecutors to ensure they are able to do their work without being exposed to unacceptable risks.
As a result, he said Permanent Secretary in the Justice Ministry, Carol Palmer, has been tasked to renew discussions with the Police High Command to see what else can be done to improve security.
Palmer said the issue of security for prosecutors remains a concern and she will continue dialogue with the Police High Command in an attempt to find a lasting solution.
Senator Golding is asserting that his ministry will have to redouble efforts to find a solution to meet the security needs of prosecutors, in collaboration with the police force.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary said every effort is being made to relocate a number of courthouses and the Spanish Town courthouse is high on the list.
Palmer indicated that the Ministry has already identified property in Central Village on the outskirts of Spanish Town, St Catherine, for the relocation of the Spanish Town Courthouse.
However, she says the ministry is awaiting funding to proceed with the construction of the new facility.
It is reported that the female Deputy DPP was in the process of removing files from her car outside the courthouse when a man approached and demanded money.
She complied and the man left.Story originated here :Justice Ministry To Renew Discussions With Police Over Improving Security For Prosecutors