The new presiding judge of the District of Madeira recognises that “complicated times” lie ahead for the region’s justice system, marked by the lack of human resources and the worsening of social problems linked to the consumption of synthetic drugs and the increase in crime.
Speaking to journalists after taking office, Teresa Ferreira de Sousa assumed that she sees the position as a “new challenge” that requires total dedication. “I’m going to have to totally dedicate myself to the role and do the best I can, because that’s what I and others expect of myself.”
The magistrate stressed, however, that the judicial system faces structural difficulties that may worsen in the near future. Among the main obstacles are a lack of judges, prosecutors, and judicial staff. “Complicated times are ahead. With a lack of magistrates, with a lack of staff, it is not easy,” she said, confessing that with her departure from the Central Criminal Court, there is still no one to replace her. “I left, and there is no judge to replace me. My colleagues will accumulate my cases and divide them between even and odd,” she said, pointing out this scenario as “symptomatic” of the existing difficulties.
According to Teresa Ferreira de Sousa, judges often end up being the “face of justice,” even when problems arise from a scarcity of resources. “If there are no employees, it is not the judge’s fault, but the judge is in charge of the processes,” she explained.
Despite the limitations, the magistrate says that the priority of her mandate will be to ensure the best possible management of available resources and ensure the functioning of justice. “My main function is to manage judicial work and respond to colleagues’ problems.” Adding that she intends to seek solutions whenever absences or work overload arise.
Samanth Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
Photo: JM
Another of the challenges highlighted is related to the evolution of the social reality in the region. Teresa Ferreira de Sousa warned of the growth of addictions associated with synthetic drugs, a phenomenon that, according to her, is having a direct impact on crime. “Addictions to synthetic drugs have increased immensely and this is reflected in crime,” he warned.
The presiding judge also stressed that the increase in the number of homeless people is a sign of the social difficulties that the island is experiencing. Still, he recalled that the role of the court is essentially to apply the law. “What the court can do is judge and arrest when there is a crime,” he said.
In any case, Teresa Ferreira de Sousa, it will be increasingly important to articulate responses with other entities and institutions, especially when it comes to social reintegration. “We also try, whenever possible, to reintegrate people with social support,” he added.
For the new head of the District of Madeira, the courts will have to adapt quickly to a changing reality. “Every day there is a new reality”, he concluded, arguing that justice will have to face “a very serious problem to solve, especially in criminal terms”.
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