Failing to supply sufficient breath, applications for extensions of custody, and affidavits opposing bail were some of the issues discussed during a talanoa session.

The session was with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Pryde, and officers from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) West last Saturday night in Lautoka.

The talanoa session was an opportunity for prosecutors from the Police and other prosecuting agencies as well as private practitioners to discuss issues with the DPP and legal officers from the ODPP West.

The evening was also an opportunity to farewell Sergeant Qio Vodowaqavuka who was retiring after 33-and-a-half years of service with the Fiji Police Force and five years with the Police Summary Prosecutions Divisions.

The talanoa session concluded the formal workshop that was held earlier in the day and was attended by 26 participants from the Police Summary Prosecutions Division and 18 law enforcement agents from the Lautoka City Council, the Civil Aviation Authority, the Maritime Safety Authority and members of the private bar.

Mr Pryde said: “The ODPP remains committed to raising standards in prosecutions and we look forward to welcoming everyone again next year to a full training programme throughout the country, including the introduction of more specialised prosecution courses targeting maritime safety amongst others.”

The ODPP conducts prosecution workshops every third Saturday in the month around the country and they are open to any prosecutor including practitioners from the private bar. The ODPP also conducts six-week basic and advanced prosecution courses each year.

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