KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Video-link equipment has been installed in the Supreme Court, Half-Way-Tree Parish Court and St James Parish Court.

Minister of Justice, Delroy Chuck, made the disclosure when he addressed the House of Representatives on October 26.

Chuck further informed that steps are being taken to retrofit courts across the island with this equipment.

He said the utilisation of technology, such as video-link evidence, seeks to protect witnesses and save them the vagaries of attending court.  

“A more effective justice system where cases which are set down for trial are tried within a timely manner will reduce the practice of accused persons taking their chances with the system, expecting that the matter will break down or be thrown out,” the minister said.

Chuck advised that work to install the technology in 19 additional courts is expected to commence before the end of the 2016/17 fiscal year.

The minister announced recently that three mobile units, which are equipped to facilitate witnesses giving evidence remotely, have been acquired.

He said the ministry is “far advanced” in procuring another 22 units, which are expected to arrive before the end of the fiscal year, and will be dispatched for use islandwide.

The minister informed that digital audio-recording equipment had been installed in some courtrooms, with 71 additional courtrooms and seven hearing rooms slated to be outfitted.