Judiciary Actively Recruiting Prosecutors to Fill DPP Vacancies

The Trinidad and Tobago Judiciary has issued a statement reassuring the public that it is diligently working to fill critical vacancies within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). This proactive communication comes amid growing concerns about the potential impact of staffing shortages on the expansion of the Criminal Division of the High Court. We understand that the effective functioning of our justice system relies on a robust prosecutorial arm, and the Judiciary acknowledges these concerns.

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The Judiciary is aware of the concerns relating to prosecutorial staffing and notes that recruitment processes in respect of vacancies within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions are ongoing.

Kerry-Anne Roberts, Communications and Information Manager for the Judiciary, confirmed that recruitment processes are actively underway to address these shortages. Importantly, the DPP, Roger Gaspard, is fully apprised of these efforts and is an engaged participant in the process. This collaborative approach is vital as we strive to strengthen our legal infrastructure. The Judiciary also highlighted its broader commitment to enhancing the criminal justice system through various initiatives, such as improved case management, judicial training, and strategic administrative reforms.

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The Judicial and Legal Service Commission (JLSC) “is currently actively engaged in the process to fill vacancies in the Office of the DPP”.

These efforts are further supported by the establishment of the Criminal Justice Board, designed to foster continuous dialogue and coordinated problem-solving among all agencies involved in the administration of criminal justice. The Judiciary's statement also noted that with the recent appointment of new High Court judges, further measures are being taken to bolster the management and progression of criminal matters. While the DPP's concerns about staffing are valid and have been clearly articulated, the Judiciary's response indicates a concerted effort to address these challenges and ensure the continued efficiency and effectiveness of our legal system.

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The statement further noted that DPP Roger Gaspard is aware of the recruitment efforts “because his Office is a key and engaged participant in the process”.