11 April 2009

Norway contribution targets the justice sector

Demonstrating a strong commitment to long-term development needs and improved rule of law in Timor-Leste, the Norwegian Government announced a NOK 19 million contribution (US$2,9 million) to the UNDP Justice System Programme over a three year period.

The signing ceremony, attended by the Norwegian Ambassador, Mr. Eivind S. Homme as well as the UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Finn Reske-Nielsen, in the presence of the Minister of Justice, Dra. Lucia Lobato, took place on 3 April at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Timor-Leste.

“With this additional contribution we would like to reinforce Norway's commitment to supporting the judicial sector with a view to improving the delivery of and access to justice to the people of Timor-Leste,” said Mr. Eivind S. Homme.

This contribution, which will begin in 2009 and continue into 2010 and 2011, is of great assistance to the new and expanded programme, particularly as the early years are the most resource intensive years. The funds will be used to increase the current level of support to the judiciary.

“Since 2004, Norway has been a trusted partner in ensuring financial support to the effective implementation of the Justice System Programme. Such a support has not only strengthened capacities for the judiciary institutions to uphold the rights enshrined in the Constitution of RDTL and but it has also contributed to Government’s efforts in consolidating the rule of law in Timor-Leste. We thank Norway for this generous contribution which will go a long way in improving the judicial system and the rule of law, which is critical for stability and development in this country”, said the UNDP Resident Representative, Finn Reske-Nielsen.

http://92.39.118.48/justice/index.php?mod=newsarchive&id=124

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