Four new magistrates have been welcomed into the Magisterial Services (MS) by Chief Justice Sir Mari Kapi, who also announced further positive developments in the court system.
They are Paias Tapil, Pauline Stegman, Earnest Wilmot and Nerrie Eliakim.
Sir Mari said the quartet was joining the PNG MS at an opportune time where new changes would be introduced to assist the courts.
“I have met with the new Attorney-General and he assures me that he is keen on making a few changes to the court system.
“And, I know the courts are in for major improvements,” Sir Mari said.
He added that with the addition of the four new magistrates, they would leave behind past practices where magistrates were non-lawyers.
Sir Mari told the new lawyers that as the new officers, they would institute new vigour to the MS and help it to implement some of its initiatives.
“Remember, your conduct on the bench is important to the MS and you must ensure this is done to the best of your ability,” Sir Mari said last week.
The Chief Justice paid tribute to the MS for its role in dispensing cases in the rural areas, often not covered by the National and Supreme Courts.
He also added that there were moves in place to increase the MS civil jurisdiction, which can empower the MS to preside on matters that require that.
Meanwhile, Chief Magistrate John Numapo, in welcoming the new magistrates, said that they would boost the numbers needed for the MS to execute its role.
“Many of our current serving magistrates are nearing their retirement age and the service has gone on a vigorous recruitment drive since 2004.
“MS will continue to recruit next year and beyond until we reach the ceiling of 130,” Mr Numapo said.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Mr Tapil thanked the Judicial and Legal Services Commission for selecting the four of them.
He said that they were looking forward to the new challenge and would endeavour to ensure all standards and requirements of the court were upheld and maintained.