Law Society president slams ‘old, unfit’ facility
QUEENSLAND Law Society president Bill Potts has called for the demolition of the Townsville Courthouse, labelling it “old and unfit for purpose”.
Mr Potts made the comments after Supreme Court Justice David North spoke about his courtroom’s inadequacies during the second week of a murder trial, as defence barristers were unable to clearly hear the testimonies of witnesses, or see them as a result of a monitor on the witness stand.
“Curiously the whole courtroom was refitted out … against the advice of every judge in this city and contrary to the wishes of the judges and court staff,” Justice North told the court.
“It was insisted that the witness stand and other features be replicated; of course, they’re inadequate for modern technology and for modern means.
“But a lot of money was spent by the Government against the suggestion of the judges and as we see now, things aren’t working out.
“The refit of the courtroom is proving to be unsatisfactory and unworkable.”
Justice North said disabled people couldn’t easily access the witness stand because of its proximity to the jury, with no desk included for witnesses needing to refer to documents or photographs.
“A decision was made by those who redesigned the court to have no regard to people with disabilities,” Justice North said.
Mr Potts said the Justice Department had to find an overall solution and redesign the courthouse to create a “legal hub” with the correct facilities to address the needs of the community.
“It’s a very outmoded court that needs to be completely torn down and a modern court suitable for Townsville put in place,” he said.
“Courts are obliged to ensure disabled witnesses, disabled judges and disabled defendants are catered for.”
Attorney-general Yvette D’ath said the monitor had since been moved.
“I’m advised the only change to the witness stand at the Supreme Court was the replacement of white melamine panels with a timber veneer product, and the addition of a monitor,” Ms D’ath said.
“The judiciary was consulted about the minor works. Changing the layout of the court was not considered.
“The more significant project, the $9 million Townsville Courthouse upgrade, is progressing well, with the modern new Magistrates Court registry already complete.”
A department spokesman said one courtroom had been completed late last year, with the rest being finished between May and June.