Failure to invest in Auckland courts inexplicable
11 February 2009
Media Statement
Failure to invest in Auckland courts inexplicable
Labour Party Courts
spokesperson Rick Barker says an obvious oversight in
National’s infrastructure package has been the failure to
invest in additional court facilities for the greater
Auckland area.
After considerable work and consultation with a wide range of stakeholders in Auckland the Ministry of Justice finalised a strategy for the expansion of much needed court facilities for Auckland, Rick Barker said.
“This included new buildings in Manukau and Waitakere. Both Courts are under considerable pressure and both areas urgently need additional facilities.
“These projects are very suitable candidates for an infrastructure package. They will provide needed jobs in the construction industry, and they have well developed plans,” Rick Barker said.
“What is more, both projects will bring immediate and tangible benefits for the community when finished. They will ensure cases come to court sooner, which will be of enormous relief to the victims of crime. They will ensure that accused have their day in court in a timely manner, and the completed projects will build public confidence in the administration of justice.
“I find it inexplicable why such worthy projects have been overlooked.”
ENDS