Minister of National Security, Colonel Trevor MacMillan, cuts the ribbon to officially open the administrative office of the newly renovated Cambridge courthouse and police station in Cambridge, St James. - Photo by Tashieka Mair

WESTERN BUREAU:

After more than one year out of service, and multiple delays, the renovated Cambridge courthouse and police station was officially opened on Tuesday.

The building, which dates back more than 200 years, now boasts a Petty Session Court, a Resident Magistrate's Court and expanded holding areas for The renovation, which was initially estimated at $55 million, exceeded the original amount due to the addition of a ramp for the physically challenged and repairs to the driveway leading to the facility. The final renovation cost was $65 million.

Commitment

Senator Dorothy Lightbourne, the minister of justice, announced several plans for the new facility, including civil, traffic and coroner's court sittings and mediation services.

Mediation, she said, would significantly help Cambridge residents, as the majority of cases from that jurisdiction are related to domestic violence.

"In the Government manifesto pledges, we gave a commitment to establish community justice tribunal, and out of funding from the Canadian-Caribbean Corporation Fund, we will be engaging consulting services to train justices of the peace, social workers and other community leaders from across the island," she said.

"These tribunals will serve to resolve disputes between citizens and will be heard with consenting parties and are intended to make these agreements enforceable by the court."

The justice minister added: "It is hoped that the investment in this new hall of justice will send a strong signal to persons who continue to run afoul of the law. Justice in Cambridge will be swift and impartial."

Lightbourne also mentioned plans to conduct an inspection tour of the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court to determine what renovations are needed.