Mediation Services for DPP’s Office
The Cabinet Office, the Ministry of Justice, the Public Service Commission and the director and legal staff in the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) have combined to set in motion a process of mediation as part of a new framework for the building of wholesome relationships in the department of the DPP. This is in keeping with recommendations contained in the Report of the Muirhead committee which was appointed by the Public Service Commission to examine approaches that could facilitate the improvement of the institutional operations and functioning of the office of the DPP.
The
director and staff are in agreement on the primacy of the public
interest and a commitment to preserve, defend and enhance the integrity
of the system of the administration of justice in
The mediation services are to be provided by the Dispute Resolution Foundation whose application came out ahead of the four others tendered in response to an open public offer advertised by the Ministry of Justice.
The Foundation will work with the director and staff of the department to design and implement systems and processes that will provide open communication, mutual respect and the rebuilding of trust, and facilitate the development of appropriate personal relationships to foster an harmonious environment and team spirit.
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Senator A. J. Nicholson says he welcomes this initiative which is designed to allow the prosecutors to operate in an environment in which they can concentrate fully on their core functions – the provision of public prosecution services in Jamaica with fairness and competence.
He stressed that particular care is being taken in this and all other initiatives to ensure that the exercise of the constitutional functions of the DPP is protected from control, direction or influence.
All stakeholders are committed to this intervention in the full knowledge that mutual respect and patience are required for its success.
