Legislation Coming to Strengthen Mediation, Restorative Justice

During the 2024/2025 legislative year, the Government will implement measures to enhance access to justice, including legislation to strength the use of mediation and restorative justice.

“The Government will seek to enact a Mediation Bill, a Restorative Justice Bill, and a new Justice of the Peace Jurisdiction Act to further enhance the role of Lay Magistrates,” said Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen.

“We will continue the improvement of access to justice, expansion of alternative justice services, and enhance legal aid services for vulnerable groups,” he added.

The Governor-General was presenting the Throne Speech at the ceremonial opening of Parliament on Thursday (February 15).

He said the Government continues to promote healing, reconciliation, and mutual respect in its journey towards a peaceful, productive, and prosperous Jamaica.

To this end, in financial year 2023/ 2024, the Restorative Justice Programme facilitated 1,792 referrals, with 82 per cent resulting in agreements between parties.

“The Child Diversion Programme transferred 764 children (ages 12-17) in conflict with the law, from the formal court systems, providing them with treatment plans,” he told the House, adding that 99 youths deemed high-risk were assigned mentors.

Significant progress has also been made in the parish courts, reducing the overall net criminal backlog to under two per cent.

“Infrastructural upgrades continued, and Public-Private Partnerships for new judicial complexes are planned in selected parishes,” Sir Patrick said.