Chief Justice, the Hon. Mrs. Justice Zaila McCalla, delivers opening remarks at the 3^rd Annual Resident Magistrates’ Training Seminar.

The island’s Resident Magistrates’ participated in a three day training seminar on corruption – June 13-15, which was staged by the Justice Training Institute (JTI) and National Integrity Action (NIA) in collaboration with the Court Management Services (CMS).  

The tone of the weekend activity was set by The Hon. Mrs. Justice Zaila McCalla – Chief Justice who impressed upon the Resident Magistrates the importance of participating in the workshops. The Chief Justice in her opening remarks spoke of the usefulness of the seminar, as it helps to build the capacity of the Resident Magistrates’, in light of the passage of new laws and legislation to deal with increased criminal activities.

The Hon. Chief Justice acknowledged the serious resource constraints which hamper the best efforts of the Resident Magistrates, but urged the judicial officers to use more efficient ways to execute their functions. She encouraged Resident Magistrates to fully utilize Criminal Case Management (CCM) within their respective courts as this approach will assist with the timely disposal of cases.

Specially invited guest Minister of Justice the Hon. Mark Golding in his address to the participants emphasized the importance of workshops of this nature, while underscoring the Magistracy’s capacity to better understand changes to the country’s laws. He believes this kind of capacity building will enhance their capacity to understand and deal with the emergence of a new wave of criminal activities affecting the country.

Professor Trevor Munroe, Executive Director of National Integrity Action expressed his appreciation of the Resident Magistrates continued commitment to such sessions as it underscores their steadfast commitment to the administration of justice. The professor further indicated his better understanding of the plight of the Resident Magistrates who continue to execute their roles, with professionalism in spite of the challenging conditions under which they work.  He urged the Minister of Justice to continue his efforts in lobbying for the provision of adequate resources, as the lack thereof contributes greatly to the delay of justice in the country.

The training seminar is an annual activity designed to enhance the capacity of the Judiciary and Magistracy by bringing together various experts to assist in keeping keep judicial officers abreast of changes in the justice sector and the wider environment. Among the various topics focused on this year were: Money Laundering Offences, the Law Reform (Fraudulent Transactions Act) (Special Provision) Act 2013 (Lottery Scam) and the Principles of Granting of Bail.