The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) is contending that a critical shortage of court reporters is affecting sittings of mention and circuit courts in St. Catherine, Clarendon and St. James.

In expressing her concern over what she describes as the deepening crisis, Opposition Spokesperson on Justice, Senator Donna Scott- Mottley, says the situation poses a significant threat to the efficiency of the judicial system.

The senator says the reporters’ absence not only endangers the resolution of cases but also undermines the integrity of the legal process and the constitutional requirement for a fair and timely hearing.

She notes that the director of public prosecutions has indicated that the situation has resulted in delays in cases set for trial in various circuit courts.

Senator Scott-Mottley asserts that a reliable justice system is necessary to alleviate the issue of crime.