Issued by: The Minister of Justice
8 June 1995
Cabinet has recently approved the Judicial Matters Amendment Bill. The purpose of the Bill is to make provision for the magistrates of the former TBVC states and self-governing territories to be included in the dispensation of magistrates serving under the Magistrates Act of 1993.
The Bill also provides for magistrates to be transferred and appointed to posts in the public service. Such a step will make more flexible the career options of magistrates who may wish to apply for positions as state attorneys, advocates, and so on.
In terms of the Magistrates Act, 1993 magistrates were removed from the civil service. The purpose of this measure was to ensure the independence of the judicial authority. Magistrates not falling under this Act and who are still public servants (i.e. those appointed before 27 April 1994 by the former TBVC authorities) will now do so. This will provide for the sound administration of justice.
The second provision, that of transfer to the public service, is to avoid the problems of magistrates who would have to resign from their office before such transfers could be effected, thereby forfeiting certain employment benefits.
Following Cabinet approval, the Bill has been referred to the State Law Advisors, after which it will be tabled in Parliament.
Issued by Susan de Villiers on behalf of the Minister of Justice.
For more information, telephone 021-457418 or page 021-215420 code 27989.