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In his address during the 2025 Budget Debate on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, Honourable Garth Wilkin, Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, announced a series of transformative initiatives aimed at revolutionising St. Kitts and Nevis’ justice system through cutting-edge technology and infrastructure upgrades.

Attorney General Wilkin detailed two major modernisation projects launched this year by the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court: the E-Litigation Portal for criminal matters and an AI-driven court transcription tool. These innovations promise to significantly enhance judicial efficiency and accessibility in the twin-island federation.

Under the PACE Justice Project, which commenced in 2024, the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs allocated EC$358,000 for advanced judicial technology. As part of this initiative, new televisions, computers, and photocopiers were delivered in November 2024, strengthening the operational capabilities of the judiciary.

Looking ahead, Attorney General Wilkin announced EC$1.5 million in capital investments for a new Ministry headquarters. The state-of-the-art facility will streamline operations and improve service delivery. An additional EC$400,000 has been allocated for the rehabilitation of the Sir Lee L. Moore Judicial Complex, while EC$150,000 is earmarked for operationalising the Land Administration Information System (LAIS).

“These investments ensure that our institutions are resilient, efficient, and equipped to serve the people effectively,” Wilkin affirmed.

The Attorney General also introduced the Sustainable Road Safety Project, a bold initiative aimed at achieving zero traffic fatalities by 2030. This project will leverage data analysis, public consultation, and AI technology to improve road safety throughout the federation.

In his address, Attorney General Wilkin lauded progress in the Director of Public Prosecutions Office, the Magistrate’s Court, and the Intellectual Property Office (IPOSKN). The latter has surpassed revenue expectations while bolstering international copyright protections, demonstrating the Ministry’s commitment to innovation and accountability.

“This Budget reflects a Ministry and an Attorney General’s Office that are hardworking, accountable, and innovative,” Wilkin concluded. “Together, we are building a resilient justice system that safeguards the rule of law and empowers future generations.”