Opposition Spokesperson for Justice Senator Donna Scott-Mottley is again calling on the Government to address the deplorable conditions plaguing Jamaica’s court system.

The call comes in light of recent reports from court staff and attorneys. The PNP said concerns raised by attorneys and the ongoing protests by court clerks highlight the depth of the crisis within the nation’s justice infrastructure.

On October 2, clerks at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court staged a two-day sickout to protest their unacceptable working conditions, including malfunctioning bathrooms, poor air quality, and pest infestations. This industrial action severely impacted court operations and underscored the deteriorating state of court facilities. The protests were triggered by frustrations that have been festering for years, with no adequate response from the authorities.

Further, a recent article by attorney Alexander Shaw published on October 7, 2024, brought additional scrutiny to the state of the courthouses. Shaw noted that the problems in the courts affect not only court staff but also the legal professionals who must navigate these dysfunctional spaces daily. He emphasized that these issues have a direct impact on the timely delivery of justice, as inefficiencies caused by infrastructural shortcomings delay proceedings, cause discomfort, and further erode public trust in the justice system.

Senator Scott-Mottley lamented: “It is shameful that both the staff and legal professionals must operate under such deplorable conditions. This administration’s inaction shows a glaring disregard for our justice system, which is foundational to the rule of law. The neglect not only impacts those working within the courts but also undermines the rights of citizens seeking justice.

“I have made several calls for the Government to address these issues which are affecting the Kingston and St. Andrew Parish Court in Half Way Tree, the Supreme Court, the St. Catherine Parish Court in Spanish Town and other court facilities across the island which are in dire need of infrastructure upgrades. Courts are a pillar of democracy, and the conditions that have been allowed to persist are an affront to justice. Again, I call on the Government to treat this issue with the urgency it deserves.

The Opposition says it remains committed to supporting measures that will ensure a functioning and fair justice system for all Jamaicans, including a long-term infrastructure improvement plan that prioritizes the upgrade and maintenance of all court buildings.