Grenada could have a third High Judge sitting on the bench in time for the start of the new session of the assizes from October 7.
This was disclosed by Attorney General, James Bristol at the start of the new Law Year.
Bristol's address to the special sitting of the High Court was delivered by the Director of Public Prosecution, Christopher Nelson.
In the address, the newly appointed AG said that his government is cognisant of the importance of the legal system and will ensure that initiatives are developed to enhance and protect the integrity of the legal system.
One of the initiatives mentioned is a plan to ensure that a third judge "is in place pretty soon."
Bristol announced that a building has already been secured for the additional court room and that
residential accommodation was secured for the new judge.
Over the years, the Grenada Bar Association (GBA) has been clamouring for a third residential judge whom they believe can assist in reducing the number of civil cases on the backlog.
Bristol pledged the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration's commitment to the efficient functioning of the judiciary by considering adequate staffing for the AG's Chambers, Magistrates, and the Registry of the Supreme Court.
It was also disclosed that measures will be taken to regularise the legal profession.
Bristol said that consideration is being given to the Legal Profession Act to look at regulating the local legal fraternity.
There have been increasing complaints about some lawyers engaging in unethical behaviour especially as it relates to the use of monies from clients.
Bristol told the special sitting that instrumental in the maintenance of an orderly society is an independent judiciary and a strong integrated Bar.
The attendance of the local bar at the special sitting was rather disappointing.
Former GBA President, Ruggles Ferguson who spoke on behalf of the local association noted his disappointment in the way the annual commencement of the new Law Year is treated.
Ferguson took issue with the Magistrate's Courts for holding sittings even when the Law Year commences.
"This is a sitting which not only the Magistrates, but also the Commissioner of Police, the Commissioner of Prisons, the Court Staff ought to be involved. It is akin to the opening of Parliament in which everybody is invited," he said.
