Some Courthouses May Be Closed

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31347, 18 April 1967, Page 14

Some Courthouses May Be Closed

“Tha Press” Special Service

WELLINGTON, April 17.

The Government may close some “marginal” courthouses in the interests of economy. The Minister of Justice (Mr Hainan) said the closures could be the outcome of a comprehensive review of the organisation of courts and lands and deeds offices which is now under way.

“There is a natural reluctance in the local community when a court is closed,” Mr Hanan said, “but experience has proved that the closing of particular offices in the past has not resulted in a lower standard of service to the public. “With improved roads and modem transport a court is able effectively to serve a much larger area than in the past The maintenance of a courthouse, the provision of staff and the many other associated charges entail a substantial expenditure, and I am doubtful whether the costs involved In keeping a number of marginal courts in use today is a justifiable burden on the taxpayer.” Mr Hanan said considerable advances had been made in the lands and deeds division in recent years by introducing methods of quicker and easier

registration and search for titles.

The time had come, however, to review the organisation of the division to ensure the best use of the facilities now available and the most effective use of staff.

The pressing need for economy added urgency to the review which was required under the State Services Act, 1962.

Mr Hanan announced previously that in fture only one opening ceremony for courthouses would be held. Previously, Ministers laid a foundation stone and returned when the work was finished for an opening ceremony.