Justice Minister Delroy Chuck says work is underway to draft a Mediation Act in addition to updating the restorative Justice Act, as the government moves to strengthen the use of mediation and restorative justice to settle minor matters, without going to court.

The Minister was speaking at a recent JIS Think Tank Forum where he gave an update on current legislative matters and pending matters to be prioritized for the remainder of the fiscal year.

The Minister was speaking at a recent JIS Think Tank Forum where he gave an update on current legislative matters and pending matters to be prioritized for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Minister Delroy Chuck says that the use of mediation and restorative justice in settling disputes will speed up the delivery of justice while reducing the backlog of cases before the courts. 

Meanwhile the ministry of justice is looking to implement the use of sample pictures in drug related cases; this would eliminate the process of taking large quantities of narcotics before the court for viewing during trials.

According to Minister Chuck storing and transporting narcotics to and from court is a security risk.      

Another matter due for review is the Integrity Commission Legislation. And despite the independent commission of investigations not being given the power to prosecute, the act is to be amended to strengthen the investigative powers of the commission.

Robian Williams has this report: