The closed door that meets residents needing to do business at the Macksville Courthouse is more than just an inconvenience.
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At last night’s (Thursday) Nambucca Shire Council meeting the mayor Rhonda Hoban put forward a motion to write to the Attorney General and others calling for the adequate staffing of the office during normal business hours.
“Residents attend the court for a wide variety of reasons ranging from dealing with Apprehended Violence Orders, to legal applications to certifying documents and registering births and deaths,” Cr Hoban said.
“Based on the notice on the door, it appears the court has been closed due to security reasons. In the past only one female staff member was present and although the police station aadjoins, it is often unattended.
“While it may not be feasible to have the court open every week day of the week, only opening on sitting days (Thursdays), when it is very busy, disadvantages those who work or have transport difficulties or urgent matters.”
The General Manager, Michael Coulter, added that people were being referred to the council for a Justice of the Peace.
“This is obvious cost shifting as council staff have do deal with the enquiry and then refer the person to a staff member.Time is lost dealing with this non-council related matter,” Mr Coulter said.
Cr Susan Jenvey said any loss of services was terrible and every effort should be made to keep the court open.
Councillors unanimously voted in favour of the recommendation to write to various members of the State Government., including the Member for Oxley, Melinda Pavey.
BACKGROUND: Restricted hours for local court