Project assistance completion report : Caribbean justice improvement project (598-0645.08/532-0162)

Achievements under the three subproject components were as follows. The construction component completely renovated the Supreme Court building and 14 Resident Magistrate courts. The problems of excessive heat and traffic noise were addressed at a low cost by minimizing air conditioning, relying on fans, and closing off adjacent street noise. Much needed furniture was provided. Under the records management component, the subproject automated and introduced the use of microfilm in the Supreme Court"s civil registry and also introduced a computer-aided transcription system (CAT). At the PACD, 1992 records were up to date in the filming process and 1991 records were being filmed. After a slow start, the stenotypists adjusted to CAT system, and it took hold in the Supreme Court and circuit courts. The training of court personnel included in this component was originally thwarted by high turnover rates stemming from low civil service salaries. This problem has been addressed. The training component provided in-country and overseas training to judges, resident magistrates, and prosecutors. The objectives of the training were to: (1) expand the judiciary"s role in the decision of cases; (2) develop technical abilities in such areas as court management, statistical systems, and budgeting; and (3) promote respect for the rule of law and recourse to the courts by the people. Recommendations are to: (1) establish a maintenance program for the buildings repaired under the subproject; (2) transfer responsibility for administrative management and physical maintenance of the courts from judges, registrars, and clerks to persons with management training and administrative experience; (3) continue to collect service fees (e.g., for filing documents, providing copies) and make sure these fees devolve to the Ministry of Justice, not the general budget; and (4) give responsibility for book procurement to the involved agency (in this case the Supreme Court) -- not to a contractor.