Attorney General Peter cites backlog in DA’s court system, hopeful outlook

Attorney General Levi Peter has shed light on the persistent backlog within Dominica’s justice system, expressing confidence that recent systemic upgrades, facilitated by a donation of equipment, will significantly alleviate the issue. Speaking at a ceremony on Wednesday, where the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) PACE Justice Project handed over equipment to the Government of Dominica, Peter acknowledged the extensive nature of the problem. He emphasized the critical importance of addressing delays, particularly in criminal cases, which directly impact individual liberties. While civil cases often involve financial matters, Peter clarified that the urgency in criminal cases stems from their profound implications on personal freedom. The Attorney General highlighted the necessity of a streamlined system capable of resolving court matters promptly. He noted that the donated equipment, distributed across various departments including the police, magistrates’ court, high court, and prisons, is already yielding positive results. Peter expressed optimism that the long-term benefits of these upgrades will be substantial, fostering a more efficient justice system. He also underscored the collaborative efforts of the government, aiming to serve not only Dominica but the broader Caribbean region, where similar challenges are prevalent. Peter remains hopeful that the backlog will see a significant reduction and that other systemic issues will be addressed in due course.