Westmoreland attorneys demand Gov’t prioritise restoration of parish court
WESTMORELAND, Jamaica – Members of the legal fraternity in Westmoreland have expressed deep concern over reports that the Government is reconsidering plans for the repair and restoration of the Westmoreland Parish Court.
In a press release on Friday, a group of practicing attorneys in the parish noted that since Hurricane Melissa in October of last year, Circuit Court matters have been displaced to Hanover, while the Westmoreland Parish Court operates from inadequate facilities in Whithorn.
“This is no longer a matter of inconvenience. It is a matter of access to justice and public confidence in the administration of justice,” the release stated. “Courtrooms are overcrowded, space is insufficient for the volume and complexity of Court matters and sittings frequently continue late to 9:00 pm and later for some court workers.”
According to the attorneys, what’s most concerning is that many parish court matters have effectively not been tried since the hurricane, and the backlog continues to grow.
They said the burden on litigants is substantial.
“Many have to travel outside the parish at additional expense, lose workdays, arrange childcare and incur costs they cannot afford simply to access the courts,” the attorneys said, adding that “Justice should be not a privilege for only those who can afford it. When access to the courts is compromised, the most vulnerable are neglected.”
They noted that jurors are similarly affected, often attending court out of parish at their own expense while awaiting selection. Citizens performing this vital civic duty should not be required to bear such burdens, the lawyers argued.
The release noted, also, that lawyers spend hours travelling outside the parish to represent clients, reducing time available to prepare matters and serve clients.
“The people of Westmoreland deserve a justice system that is accessible, efficient, and dignified,” the attorneys appealed. “We therefore urge the relevant authorities to prioritise the restoration of the Westmoreland Parish Court and provide clear timelines for its return.”
