NAPE Responds to Announcement of New Courthouse Facility; Wants Input in Planning

NAPE Responds to Announcement of New Courthouse Facility; Wants Input in Planning

ST. JOHN’S, NL – The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE) is pleased that the provincial government is proceeding with their commitment for a new courthouse facility in St. John’s. 

“NAPE has been raising concerns about the existing court facilities in St. John’s to the government for many years. The current set up, with various courts, related facilities, and offices spread out in multiple, and in many cases outdated, locations has been a growing concern for NAPE and its members in the Department of Justice and Public Safety,” said NAPE President Carol Furlong. “From safety and security issues, to lack of parking in the area, to aging infrastructure, our concerns have been consistently raised with the provincial government over the years. A new courthouse should address these concerns.”

“A new facility, if done properly, will allow for enhanced security for the public, those before the courts, as well as our members and others working in the court system. While we welcome this announcement, we are calling on the government to ensure that the input and concerns of NAPE and its members in the Department of Justice and Public Safety are involved in the planning process of the new facility,” stated Furlong. “Our members on the front lines are in a unique position to provide invaluable input into the new courthouse and must be part of the planning process to make sure that the final product is safe, secure, properly equipped, functional, and has adequate parking.”

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For further information please contact:

Keith Dunne, NAPE Campaigns and Communications Coordinator

(phone) 709.570.2501       

(cell) 709.631.9737             

(e-mail) kdunne@nape.nf.ca