-through PACE training initiative

-by Nakasia Logan

A two-day PACE Justice joint DPP police training is currently underway at the police officers’ mess in Georgetown bringing together legal experts, police officials and international partners to discuss ways to make Guyana’s justice system faster and more efficient.

The workshop is focused on practical ways to reduce delays in court cases improve the handling of investigations and strengthen cooperation among the police, prosecutors and other key stakeholders within the justice system. Director of Public Prosecutions Shalimar Ali-Hack said the justice system functions best when all parties communicate effectively and work together from the beginning of an investigation.

She added that she has already seen significant improvements resulting from the training provided. 

“I must compliment the European Union and UN office for the approach they have taken. This training has enhanced the ability of both the bench and the bar and the investigators in their various functions,” she said.

Chargé d’Affaires of the European Union delegation of Guyana, Spiros Duynhoven also addressed the gathering noting that the international partners remain committed to supporting Guyana’s efforts to improve its justice system. He stressed the importance of sharing knowledge and best practices to strengthen policing, investigations and court processes. 

“PACE Justice aims to reduce criminal backlogs across eight beneficiary countries and has already delivered concrete results since its launch in 2023 including three initiatives to strengthen police investigative capacities,” he said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Solicitor General in the Ministry of Legal Affairs Shoshanna Lall, delivering remarks on behalf of the Attorney General said the government continues to pursue measures to improve the justice system so that cases can move through the courts more quickly and fairly. 

“She noted that reforms and training initiatives such as this workshop help build a stronger and more effective justice system. We can speak about the many new courts that the government has built over the last couple of years including in our very, very rural areas.The appointment of new magistrates and judges, new legislation and rules. But all of that will come for nothing if we do not equip our justice actors with the proper training,” she emphasised.

The workshop continues over two days and includes discussions on real challenges affecting the justice system including case delays and difficulties related to evidence.

Officials say the goal is to identify practical solutions that will help cases move more quickly through the courts and ensure that justice is delivered more efficiently for everyone.