Mold Takes Over Court Houses, Delaying Hearings

On Wednesday the Belize City Magistrates Court had to be closed, because employees raised health concerns related to mold infestation in the building. The Punta Gorda Magistrates and Family Court are also faced with a mold infestation issue. That is yet to be addressed, even though there are complaints from employees of a similar nature. The High Court building directly in front of Battlefield Park is also tackling mold and a rodent problem. We heard from Attorney General, Anthony Sylvestre, on how these concerns are being addressed.

 

Anthony Sylvestre, Attorney General

“I’m not sure if you were present at the opening of the High Court, but the chief justice did indicate that there are plans, in train to address the and this structure similar to what was done with respect to the other, structure which previously housed the Prime Minister’s office and the chief Justice office. So a similar plan has been developed to refurbish these premises.”

 

Reporter
“How much would be the cost.”

 

Anthony Sylvester
“That that project ran about two million, a little bit over two million.”

 

Reporter
“Okay. So we’re looking at, similar quantum for this its a little bit smaller but…”

 

Anthony Sylvester
“I would say in the range of  two million. So the family court issue at Punta Gorda, that is an issue that would be addressed in the new fiscal year. One of the things so one of the issues with respect to the interim period is that in terms of allocations of financing but you haven’t raised it and it being a critical matter I will undertake that I’ll address and certainly, operating within reasonable provisions that are allowed for a government during this interim period it certainly will be addressed but thank you for that.”