Former Mayor says Balaclava Courthouse is a waste of money

Former Mayor of Black River Jeremy Palmer says the Courthouse in Balaclava is a waste of public resources and funds.

The Balaclava Courthouse was officially opened on Wednesday by Justice Minister Mark Golding.

The Courthouse, which was started in 2005, was completed in March 2010 at a cost of over $60 m.

Speaking with reporters after the monthly meeting of the St. Elizabeth Parish Council on Thursday, Mr. Palmer predicted that the building would be underutilized, with a very small case load.

The former Mayor pointed out that after construction, the courthouse was left practically unused for nearly 2 years.

Mr. Palmer, who is a practicing attorney, said court sessions for the Balaclava area are held one Thursday every month, and the number of cases has been dwindling over the years.

He said construction of the $60 m facility was very unnecessary, and, given the country’s financial constraints, the money could have gone to better use.

Mr. Palmer said it would have been easier for legal personnel and residents to continue using the Courthouse in Santa Cruz.

In light of the concerns raised by the former Mayor, current Mayor of Black River Everton Fisher has called on Justice Minister Mark Golding to ensure that the Balaclava Courthouse is put to good use.