Call for more technology changes in courts

Criminal proceedings should expand the use of technology and reduce prisoner movements and the associated costs and staffing required, a new report says.

Allowing key prosecution documents to be circulated electronically and further expanding video-link in criminal proceedings should be considered to reduce the demands on garda and prison resources and improve court efficiency, an expert committee has said.

A group made up of key State agencies also suggests installing a video link in the Children’s Court in Dublin, over concerns about the impact of appearing in person in court over consecutive days is having on the educational and rehabilitative routine of juveniles.