DPP seeks $2.3M for new office infrastructure

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has made an urgent request to the government for $2.3 million to address office infrastructure challenges and persistent staffing shortages.

The DPP’s request came during a recent Standing Finance Committee (SFC) meeting, where she raised concerns that insufficient staffing has significantly hampered the office’s efficiency, particularly in handling cases involving financial crimes and other complex prosecutions. The office has nine legal vacancies, with the DPP noting that the hiring process for these roles has been slow, often taking up to nine months to complete.

In addition to staffing concerns, the DPP highlighted the urgent need for improved office infrastructure. She revealed that the current office space has persistent issues with air quality and inadequate security, making it an unsuitable environment for legal staff handling high-profile cases. The office was initially expected to be housed in the planned Halls of Justice, but those plans did not materialise. As a result, the department has been tasked with sourcing alternative accommodations.

The proposed budget for the new office infrastructure includes approximately $1.5 million for outfitting a new space, which is currently an unfinished building requiring significant modifications. The estimated cost also accounts for an annual rent of $306,000, security enhancements costing $62,728, air conditioning expenses of $276,000, and electricity costs of $37,000 annually. Additionally, the office requires $150,000 for furniture and relocation expenses.