1.
Chief Coroner Judge Neil MacLean says his team is coping well with the heavy demands on the Coronial system in the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquake.

“We are working alongside Police to carry out our duties in the face of a dreadful death toll.

“Temporary facilities, such as refrigerated body storage, have been set up and arrangements made for the transportation of bodies to Auckland for post-mortems.

“Our contingency plans are in place and although we are managing well at the moment, we can call on additional facilities and personnel should they be needed.

“If necessary I will convene a Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Panel in case their expertise is required and will also continue to liaise with Police and Pathologists to ensure the deceased are handled safely, swiftly and with respect.

“While my thoughts are with all those affected, my main priority is making sure those lost in this terrible event are returned to their families as quickly as possible,” Judge MacLean says.

2.
• There has been extensive damage to several Ministry of Justice workplaces and those that are undamaged are disrupted by access and power issues so court buildings in Christchurch will be closed for the remainder of this week.
• The Ministry will work with Police and Corrections to provide arrest courts as required.

• The High Court has been closed by order of the Chief High Court Judge.

• The District Court has been closed by order of the Executive Judge for Christchurch.

• Court fixtures scheduled this week for Timaru, Ashburton, Rangiora and Kaikoura will not now go ahead.

• Anyone summoned for jury service in Christchurch this week is not required to attend.

• There is a 24-hour freephone number for anyone with questions or concerns relating to court matters, fines or any other Justice service - 0800 324 627.

ENDS

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