Guyana moving to institute provisions for CCJ
Guyana Chronicle
April 17, 2004
THE Guyana Government is putting measures in place for the implementation of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).
In his debate presentation Thursday, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Doodnauth Singh said former Chancellor Kenneth George has drafted Civil Rules of Court, which "will take account of the establishment of the CCJ in view ... that each jurisdiction will be considered a Sub-Registry Office of the Court."
In the judicial service area, the AG said, the institution of the Judicial Service Commission is triggering applications for positions in the judiciary and the magistracy.
Previously, there was some hesitancy by persons applying for positions in these areas because of inadequate remuneration.
Minister Singh announced that this year the salary of the Chief Justice will be tax-free and "it is hoped that budgetary allocations will permit the salaries of judges and magistrates to be enhanced."
Provisions are to be made for two judges and other staff to run the Suddie Supreme Court.
The minister hopes, too, that a Registrar and Deputy Registrar of Lands will be appointed soon. Two persons have already been identified.
Meanwhile, the computerization and modernization programme of the Deeds Registry is expected to be completed by mid-year. The US$1.4M programme aims at improving the legal framework, and strengthening the Deeds Registry and the security and preservation of property rights records.
Consultations were held with the relevant stakeholders and the Ministry of Legal Affairs and the AG's Chambers are re-examining recommendations in the final report, with a view to rectifying some of the weaknesses identified.
The recommendations for the new legislation will then be placed before Parliament for the Deeds Registry to become a semi-autonomous body. (GINA)