Conditions of Cells at St George West Magistrates’ Court

28 April 2014

The Judiciary has noted the concerns expressed in the media by the members of the Police Social and Welfare Association in relation to the safety of prisoner cells at the St George West Magistrates' Court and wishes to assure members of the public and all other stakeholders that it is committed to ensuring the wellbeing of all who use its facilities.

We wish to advise that extensive refurbishment of the cells is currently the subject of a proposal that is awaiting the approval of the Commissioner of Police. A Cabinet Note is to be submitted shortly for approval to implement emergency remedial works to be undertaken at a number of Magistrates' Courts. The work on the St George West Magistrates' Court cells is to be included in that Note to Cabinet. In the interim, the Judiciary has pursued regular maintenance of the existing facilities and its Buildings, Plant and Equipment Unit has conducted repairs on the cell doors at least twice in the past year to ensure that security is preserved. Until such time as the wider project is completed, close scrutiny of the cells and urgent reponse to any areas of vulnerability has and will continue to be undertaken.

We remain willing to work with all stakeholders to ensure security within the court precincts.

For further information, kindly contact:
The Court Protocol and Information Unit
Telephone: 223-1060 Extension: 2414
Email: cp