30 November, 2006
Reforms’ Facilitation team discussed fist outcomes
The
coordinating group of the Reforms’ Facilitation project
has hold first meeting chaired by the Minister of
Justice.
Representatives of the European Commission mission to
Georgia and Armenia, also the Ministry of Justice of
Georgia, State Ministers’ on Coordination of Reforms and
European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Legal Faculty of
the Tbilisi State University and project participants
were among attendees.
The
project’s main goal is institutional development of the
Ministry of Justice of Georgia, and is financed by the
European Commission. The Austrian “Human Dynamics” is
implementing the initiative. The project contemplates
development of management policy and strategy, technical
assistance, personnel training and improvement of
internal control.
Katia
Dormisheva, team leader of the project presented first
phase report. The report covers assessment,
recommendations and future plans concerning legal and
institutional issues; informational technologies, Civil
Registry system and financial management.
The
“BCG-Research” poll was part of Ms Dormisheva’s report.
30 November, 2006
Society gives positive appraisal to reforms in the
Ministry of Justice
The
Reforms’ Facilitation Project of the Ministry of Justice
of Georgia has ordered “BCG-Research” Center to arrange
poll regarding internal and external communications of
Ministry.
The
project is funded by the European Commission.
The
poll showed that in general the employees of the
Ministry are satisfied with management system, working
conditions and internal relationship. The co-operation
between administration and employees is evaluated as
constructive. The staff is informed permanently about
ongoing matters and their position is taken into
consideration by the administration according to survey.
The
poll revealed no serious obstacles to further
development of the Ministry.
According to the survey justice, competence and fair
name are three main values important both for employees
and administration.
The
Center surveyed 700 respondents (among population);
there is lack of awareness about activities and role of
the Ministry. The society isn’t informed about reforms
arranged. But the people aware of events make positive
assessment.
The
Center made surveys in the Parliament, Court, media and
non-governmental sector. They are more involved in the
process and give constructive evaluation to the
Ministry.
The
poll showed that corruption is not crucial point for the
Ministry. Respondents consider that corruption rates in
several departments (e.g. the Agency of Civil Registry,
the National Agency of Public Registry and State
Archive) have significantly decreased.
The
Agency of Civil Registry got the highest assess as most
successful entity. The vast majority of respondents
marked the appeasement of procedures in the Agency. The
poll also showed that citizens are satisfied with state
dues for short-term documents.
29 November, 2006
The NAPR
has launched development of Tbilisi Cadastral Map
Tbilisi
Registration Office of the National Agency of Public
Registry of the Ministry of Justice started development of
Tbilisi Cadastral Map from Mtatsminda district.
The initiative is pilot project of program aimed to create
initial cadastral database. The project will advance work on
cadastral maps; meanwhile facilitate service for citizens.
Tbilisi Cadastral data was developed using different
software and caused inaccuracy problems.
The NAPR with support of international donor organizations
plans to integrate all maps and create initial database of
Tbilisi land-survey.
29 November, 2006
Detainee victim of HIV/AIDS
Zurab K. 24; has died in the Medical Facility of the
Department of Execution of Punishments of the Ministry of
Justice.
Mr K was hospitalized from #8 Geguti facility on November
16, 2006. He suffered from HIV/AIDS and reosteosynthesis.
According to preliminary information cardiac decompensation
was cause of death.
Mr K was accused of thievery and sentenced to 2.5 years of
prison.
29 November, 2006
Registration Procedures for Legal Entities Facilitated
The draft
law prepared by the Ministry of Justice implies facilitation
of registration procedures for noncommercial legal entities.
The draft project is currently discussed in the Parliament.
The
amendments in “Civil Code of Georgia” are aimed to minimize
barriers for registration of legal entities.
The
initiative facilitates procedures for noncommercial legal
entities; required special applications contain only
necessary information for registration in the registry.
Currently,
the Civil Code contemplates two kinds of noncommercial
entities: foundation and union. But upcoming amendments
abolish any legal diversification.
29 November, 2006
The Ministry of Justice has Launched Competition for
Probationers
The Ministry of Justice of Georgia has launched competition for
probationers. Interested candidates must submit applications to
the civil reception of the Ministry from November 29, 2006 until
December 12, 2006.
Candidates with higher education or senior students are eligible
to participate.
The competition consists of two stages. First phase is to take
place on December 19.
Four correct questions from five would be enough to get to
second stage.
Interviews will be held after results of tests are published.
In depth information concerning the competition is available at
www.justice.gov.ge
28 November, 2006
Training for Penal Personnel
The
Training Center for Penitentiary and Probation Service of the
Ministry of Justice has launched training course for personnel
of #3 Batumi, #4 Zugdidi and #6 Rustavi prisons; also for
prison-keepers from #5 Women and Juvenile, and Juvenile
Educational facilities. The program is for 44 employees.
After
completion of UNICEF funded courses attendees to pass
special tests and successful candidates will receive
certificates of qualification.
Meanwhile,
the Center manages retraining in basic and administrative
programs for recruits of #6 Rustavi and medical facilities
of the Department of Execution of Punishments
27 November, 2006
Payments for Public Registry Service have Facilitated
The administration of the National Agency of Public Registry of
the Ministry of Justice of Georgia facilitated payment system
for services rendered. The Agency abolished 6 digit codes which
were demanded in bank.
More than 100 fees were established in the law of December 2004
on “Charges for Services Rendered by the National Agency of
Public Registry”. In order to diversify fees special 6 digit
codes were elaborated. But the solution appeared to be
additional barrier for customers; citizens needed further
definitions and caused queues.
Now citizens are able to know only the estimated charge for
service.
The Agency also diversified number of intermediary banks. So far
only one private bank was eligible to serve the Agency.
Currently, the NAPR has accounts in several banks: “People’s
Bank”, “Republic”, “TBC-Bank”, “Agroinvestbank” and “Bank of
Georgia”.
27 November, 2006
Convict died
Igor S. 41, has died in the medical facility of the Department
of Execution of Punishments of the Ministry of Justice.
Mr S suffered from hepatitis, cirrhosis, hypertension and
encephalopathy, he was resistant to complete treatment. Inmate
was hospitalized from #8 Geguti facility on October 17, 2006.
According to preliminary information the death was caused by
cardiovascular failure.
Mr S was accused of murder and illegal weapon bearing in 1997,
he was sentenced to 14 years of jail.
25 November, 2006
Minister of Justice met UN Representative
Gia
Kavtaradze met Margaret Nicholson coordinator of North American,
Europe and Central Asia Division of the High Commissioner for
Human Rights of the United Nations.
Mr Kavtaradze discussed facts of xenophobia in Russia against
Georgians. He gave photos and documents proving human rights
violations to Ms Nicholson.
Minister also addressed human rights violations in breakaway
regions of Georgia. He emphasized lack of Georgian authorities
in Abkhazia and Samachablo. Mr Kavtaradze informed Ms Nicholson
about Georgian inmate of Dranda prison in Abkhazia. Levan
Mamasakhlisi needs medical treatment but prison authorities
refuse to provide medical assistance to the prisoner.
Issues of bilateral cooperation between the Ministry and UN
Mission in Georgia were also discussed during the meeting.
Ms Nicholson arrived to Georgia on November 21 with 5 day visit.
24 November, 2006
Inmate died in the Medical Facility
Ramaz S. 47, has died in the medical facility of the Department
of Execution of Punishments of the Ministry of Justice.
Mr S suffered from post trombophlebitis syndrome, arterial
thrombosis, recurrent thromboembolism, brain thromboembolism and
cardiovascular collapse.
According to preliminary information death was caused by
cardiovascular collapse developed due to brain thromboembolism.
Mr S was accused of thievery and arrested in October 2006.
24 November, 2006
Photos and Documents of 19-20th Centuries on Display
The Central State Archive of Tbilisi of the Ministry of Justice
of Georgia has arranged exhibition dedicated to Tbilisi history
- “Talking History”.
“We tried to represent small part of records kept in our
archive” Maka Kvaratskhelia, head of Central State Archive of
Tbilisi said during the presentation.
Manuscripts, records and scholar articles of famous authors
Pavle Ingorokva, Simon Janashia, Shalva Amiranashvili and others
are on the display; also questionnaires of 1924-25 of
Konstantine Gamsakhurdia, Vaso Abashidze, Kote Makashvili and
others are among exhibits; also questionnaires of 1924-25 of
Konstantine Gamsakhurdia, Vaso Abashidze, Kote Makashvili,
Polikarpe Kakabadze, Ekaterine Gabashvili, Vaso Godziashvili and
others are among exhibits.
Deputy Minister of Justice Mamuka Gelovani and Teona Iashvili,
head of State Archive emphasized the importance of such
exhibition. They think unacceptable records to be locked in the
wet basement. The historical documents must be available to
public.
The exhibition is supported by the Tbilisi Municipality and is
free of charge. The exposition is to be on for one week.
22 November, 2006
Oil Expertise to Meet International Standards
State of the art technologies are to be implemented in the lab
of oil quality control of the National Bureau of Forensic
Expertise of the Ministry of Justice. Experts hope the lab to
become nominee of the ISO standards after equipment testing.
So far the lab has experienced problems while testing oil
products and lubricants; the laboratory used to manage tests
according to soviet “GOST”.
But in August 2006 the Bureau initiated implementation of new
ASTM and ISO standards accepted in the USA and Europe.
Meanwhile the Bureau renovated lab and equipment, elaborated
temperature control of location.
According to Keti Tavamaishvili senior consultant the lab has
received gasoline distillation determinant equipment, also other
apparatus never used in Georgia before.
The lab personnel have passed special training courses.
21 November, 2006
The Gospel of Ancha Restoration has been Launched
The
laboratory of the Department of State Archives’ Management and
Records keeping is performing restoration of Gospel of Ancha
dated as far as XII-XIII centuries. The Gospel was among records
of the State Historic Archive.
The restoration is funded by the International Foundation for
Cultural and Scientific Development of Catholicos-Patriach of
All Georgia.
The first phase of work implies disinfection of pages, leather
softening-moistening process; harden of manuscripts and gravures
also other procedures.
During the second stage of restoration leather of manuscript
will be stretched, and the third stage of works will fill
defected pages with new artificial parchment. The Gospel will
return its original view in November 2007.
The Gospel manuscript is written with nuskhuri lettering. The
saint book has silver coating and is covered with semiprecious
stones. The Gospel is attached with icon of St. Mathew. Cover is
fulfilled by Beka Opizari, the book has 269 pages.
The Gospel has inscription were the calligrapher Theodore Bishop
of Ancha, David Soslani, Queen Tamara, Lasha-Giorgi and
goldsmith Beka are mentioned.
The Gospel of Ancha was brought to archive by citizen in 1923,
it was said that the saint book has been found in deserted
church of Tsalka.
21 November, 2006
Consumptive Died in the Medical Facility
Ruslan T. 39, has died in the Medical facility of the DEP of the
Ministry of Justice.
He was hospitalized from #3 Batumi prison on June 17, 2006. Mr T
suffered from tuberculosis, lung cavity, respiratory failure,
cachexy and anemia.
According to doctors cardiopulmonary decompensation was cause of
the death.
Mr T was accused of thievery and car hijacking and was sentenced
to 7 years’ imprisonment.
21 November, 2006
Tbilisi Registration Office of NAPR Works without Break
Tbilisi
Registration Office of the National Agency of Public Registry of
the Ministry of Justice works without a break since this
morning.
The administration’s decision is aimed to facilitate service for
citizens. The reception of the Office has always been working
without interval. But now both chancellery and document output
services to serve citizens in interval free regime. Meanwhile
the reconstruction of chancellery is completed and queue
problems will be avoided.
The Agency plans to provide chancellery with up-to-date hardware
and software in order to facilitate search system of records and
make the process immediate.
20 November, 2006
Meeting Held with East Georgia Enforcement Bureau Heads
Deputy Minister of Justice Givi Mikanadze and Enforcement
Department chief Zurab Elisabedashvili met heads of East Georgia
Enforcement bureaus. Results of enforcement procedures performed
in October were discussed during the meeting.
The meeting dedicated to the same issues to be held on November
21 with West Georgia Division administration.
The figures of enforcement acts have increased in comparison
with last year. During October 2006 bailiffs have enforced 2 856
cases; while the similar indicator was 595 in 2005 and 759 in
2004.
The problems of law enforcement proceedings were also featured
during the meeting.
18 November, 2006
Donor Meeting Dedicated to Ongoing Reforms in the NAPR
The National Agency of Public Registry hosted coordinating
meeting of donor organizations. Olin McGill head of the
“Business Climate Reform Project” of the USAID talked about
current project.
The project is aimed to support the Agency to create initial
transparent, rational registration system.
Eka Meskhidze PR manager of the Agency has presented new project
“Technical Assistance to the NAPR for Cadastre and Land
Management Reform”. The project is joint initiative of the
Agency and Lithuania’s “ERP”. The Memorandum of Understanding
between the Agency and joint stock company implies technical
assistance and professional consulting for the NAPR.
18 November, 2006
Football Friendly Between Ministry of Justice and Juvenile
Convicts
Mini football friendly between teams of the Ministry of Justice
and Juvenile inmates of the Educational Facility ended with
victory of players from the Ministry 9:7.
The stadium was launched in October juveniles defeated teams of
the Department of Execution of Punishments, TV Company “Mze” and
#35 Football School.
17 November, 2006
Gia Kavtaradze Met Envoy of the European Commission
New Head of the Delegation of the
European Commission to Georgia Per Eklund has met Minister of
Justice of Georgia. Mr Eklund has replaced Torben Holtze since
the authority of last expired.
The parties discussed ongoing bilateral projects funded by the
Commission and future collaboration.
17 November, 2006
Tbilisi Registration Office has Resumed Usual Activity
Tbilisi Registration Office of the National Agency of Public
Registry of the Ministry of Justice has resumed activity in
accordance with normal schedule, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Office had limited working hours due to the inventory
process, which was to continue until December 1. But the
administration has anticipated public interests and resumed full
time work at the final stage of the procedure.
17 November, 2006
National Property Informational System to be Launched
SIDA - Swedish International Development Agency donor of the
National Agency of Public Registry has arranged a deal with
“Geographica” consulting to create concept of National Property
Informational System.
The Agency provides support of the Registration and Cadastre
Management project in Georgia. The NPIS concept is part of
undertaking and is to become basis of IT development in the
National Agency of Public Registry.
16 November, 2006
61 Income Statements Requested since November 1
14 inquiries entered the Information Bureau of Public Officials’
Property and Financial Declarations since November 1. The
interested parties requested income statements of 61 declarants.
For instance, in comparison with October figures the interest
has decreased; 58 applications were submitted in first half of
October.
15 November, 2006
Seven Auctions Planned for Tomorrow
Tbilisi Bureau of the Enforcement Department of the Ministry of
Justice to host 7 auctions tomorrow. Bailiffs Levan Parunashvili,
Zakaria Ambardnishvili, Gela Kometiani, Vasil Kharebava, and
Kakhaber Peikrishvili to hold bidding. Six apartments and one
house with plot are put up for auction in Tbilisi.
15 November, 2006
Convict died in Kutaisi Prison
Mamuka M 38, has died in #2 Kutaisi prison of the Department of
Execution of Punishments of the Ministry of Justice.
The death was caused by cardiovascular collapse.
Mr M was detained in May 2006 and accused of thievery. He was
sentenced to 5 years of jail.
15 November, 2006
15 000 figures already in database
The Bureau of Forensic Expertise of the Ministry of Justice
undertakes activity to create fingerprint database. The record
already includes fingerprints and other personal details of 15
000 convicts.
The government of the United States actively supports the
Bureau. American counterparts provided technical assistance;
also funded retraining of personnel.
The creation of fingerprint files has been underway since
January 2005. The Development and Reforms Foundation of the
President of Georgia supported registration of inmates in
detention facilities and probationers.
Kakhaber Vardzieli head of Analytical Division of Identified
Traces excludes any errors during the identification process.
Along with technical renovation and personnel training the
Ministry of Justice of Georgia has elaborated draft law on
“Dactyloscopy Register”. Currently the project is discussed by
government. Since the law is adopted, the dactylographical
registration of civilians to start.
14 November, 2006
2856 Enforcements Performed during October
2856 law enforcement procedures have been performed by the
Enforcement Department of the Ministry of Justice during October
2006.
GEL 929 000 have been transferred to state budget.
For instance, in October 2005 only 595 enforcements were
performed; the same figure in 2004 was 759. The state budget
revenues in 2005 were GEL 89 901 and GEL 384 963 in 2004.
14 November, 2006
Trainings for Penal Personnel Continue
The Training Center for Penitentiary and Probation service has
launched training for employees of the Juvenile Educational
Facility, #6 Rustavi prison and Medical Facility for Convicts.
107 attendees from Juvenile Facility, 48 from Rustavi and 26
from Medical Facility to pass basic and management programs.
Koba Glonti Center Director has distributed manuals of all
international and local penitentiary acts through participating
personnel.
Participants will get certificates after successful completion
of final tests.
13 November, 2006
The Enforcement Department Administration Continues
Monitoring
The Enforcement Department of the Ministry of Justice continues
monitoring of territorial units. Tamar Barbakadze first Deputy
Head of Department and Zaza Khurtsidze head of East Georgia
Division visited Shida Kartli today. They will monitor Kaspi,
Gori and Kareli bureaus and evaluate situation in case of
enforcement procedures.
The Department has been monitoring units for several months. The
Administration visited Kakheti and West Georgia bureaus in
September. Check-up of Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti was
held in October.
13 November, 2006
Detainee victim of tuberculosis
Guram M. 44, died in the Medical Facility of the Department of
Execution of Punishments of the Ministry of Justice of Georgia.
Mr M suffered from tuberculous infiltration and III phase of
cavity, also cardiopulmonary decompensation. He was hospitalized
on October 3, 2006 to the Medical Facility of the DEP. According
to preliminary information the death was caused by tuberculous
intoxication and cardiovascular collapse.
Mr M was accused of thievery in July 2005. The case has been
under cognizance of Tbilisi City Court.
13 November, 2006
Kutaisi State Archive Published Records’ Almanac
Kutaisi State Archive of the Department of Archives has
published almanac of records “Imereti Records in Choral History”
with financial support of local self government.
The almanac includes records of period from 1821 to 1920.
Majority of documents are published for the first time. The
publication presents general information about and teaching of
choral.
The almanac is published for scholars and researchers of
Georgian music and church.
Recently, “Gelati Monastery During Exarches” became available to
public; which was also initiated by the archive.
The abovementioned manual has attachment of fortune of the
Gelati Monastery from 1841 to 1923; the list is published for
the first time.
Rich records of Kutaisi Archive were also published in photo
album “Kutaisi” within the project “Ancient Cities of Georgia”.
13 November, 2006
Prison-keepers have Received Certificates
The Training Center for Penitentiary and Probation Service
completed successive stage of personnel retraining. 146
attendees passed Basic and Management programs.
32 prison-keepers from #1, #5 and #7 facilities and 114
participants from #10 Avchala facility participated in the
training.
The final tests were held for trainees and only successful
candidates received certificates; 15 employees failed to get
any.
12 November, 2006
The Ministry Delegation to Visit Germany
The delegation of the Ministry of Justice has left for Germany.
The delegation to attend the seminar in the Federal Ministry of
Justice of Germany concerning administration issues on November
13.
The Training Center of Justice has arranged the trip with
support of the German Foundation for the International Legal
Cooperation (IRZ). The partnership was launched in June 2006.
First conference was held in Tbilisi. Later the Foundation has
hosted Training Center employees in order to introduce German
system and institutions.
Several arrangements are planned until the end of the year as
Sulkhan Gamkrelidze, Center director reported.
11 November, 2006
5:3 Juveniles Defeated #35 Football School Team
The Juvenile Facility of the Department of Execution of
Punishments of the Ministry of Justice has hosted #35 Football
School team. Juvenile inmates have defeated counterparts 5:3.
City Mayor Gigi Ugulava, Bacho Akhalaia head of the DEP and
Archil Arveladze #35 School director attended the event.
Mr Arveladze and Mr Ugulava promised young detainees to assign
coach next week
T-shirts and cold beverages were distributed among juvenile
prisoners.
The mini-football field was launched in the facility two weeks
ago.
11 November, 2006
The European Court of Human Rights has Rendered Judgment
The European Court of Human Rights has rendered violation of
Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights regarding
case “Gurgenidze vs. Georgia”.
David Gurgenidze sold manuscript of writer Konstantine
Gamsakhurdia in 1999. But writer’s daughter-in-law accused Mr
Gurgenidze in thievery of manuscript. The newspaper “Akhali
Taoba” printed several publications and interviews of Manan
Archvadze concerning the issue.
The legal proceeding was instituted against Mr Gurgenidze, but
the investigation found lack of signs of offence and closed the
case.
Mr Gurgenidze sued the newspaper and demanded denial of
published facts and moral reimbursement.
The “Didube-Chugureti” court quasi satisfied Mr Gurgenidze’s
claim. Moral reimbursement was rejected, but the editor and
journalist from “Akhali Taoba” were committed to apologize for
insult. Both the District and Supreme Courts left the judgment
in force.
Mr Gurgenidze appealed to the European Court of Human Rights and
accused national court in violation of “Right to respect for
private and family life”; also referred to the lack of the
“Right to the effective remedy”. The European Court rendered
that Georgian judiciary mismanaged case and quasi satisfaction
of claim was illegal. Mr Gurgenidze deserved moral
reimbursement. Therefore, the Court resolved violation of the
Article 8.
Georgia is to pay EUR 6 116 including EUR 4000 moral
reimbursement and 2 116 for court expenses.
The judgment will be final if parties refuse to appeal to the
Grand Chamber of the Court during 3 months.
10 November, 2006
President has Pardoned 18 Detainees
The
president of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili has
approved order to pardon 18 detainees. Eleven
inmates were released and terms of seven were
halved.
One
pardoned convict is woman.
10 November, 2006
Inmate of the Medical Facility of the DEP Died
Mikheil
T. 41; has died in the Medical Facility of the
Department of Execution of Punishments of the Ministry
of Justice.
Mr T
suffered from diffusive peritonitis, the death was
caused by cardiovascular collapse.
Mr T
was arrested on November 3, 2006 for drug abuse.
10 November, 2006
Installation of the DNA Lab Underway
The
installation of DNA test equipment is underway in the
National Bureau of Forensic Expertise. After the completion
of work leading biological lab is to be launched in Tbilisi.
According
to experts the up-to-date DNA equipment provides full
genetic information and improves investigation
possibilities.
The
“Applied Biosystems” equipment is purchased by the Bureau.
The apparatus to be installed in special lab; arranged in
accordance with international standards. Foreign experts
participated in selection process.
Meanwhile,
the employees of the Bureau have passed special courses in
laboratories of “Applied Biosystems”, Great Britain. Also 2
staff members attended 3 months course in the Medical
University of Odessa.
10 November, 2006
Russia
Continues Human Rights Violations
Minister of Justice of Georgia Gia Kavtaradze addressed human
rights violations and xenophobia toward Georgian citizens during
the conference - “European Co-operation in Criminal Matters”.
The meeting is organized by the Council of Europe and government
of Russian Federation; Ministers of Justice and Internal Affairs
of member states participate in the event.
The Russia-Georgia stand-off was major issue of Minister’s
speech at the meeting in Yerevan 3 weeks ago.
Mr Kavtaradze told European counterparts that Russia refused to
change policy since the meeting. Authorities continue mass
deportation of Georgians. “Deterioration of relations between
two countries must not affect citizens” Minister of Justice
considered. He urged Russian colleagues to improve the
situation.
9 November, 2006
Express Drug
Tests Underway
The number of drug test demanders has doubled during October in
the National Bureau of Forensic Expertise. The figures are
similar in November; hence the Bureau works 24 hours’ a day.
The Bureau arranges examinations with new US made tests. They
provide identification of 7 types of drugs and give immediate
results.
According to experts any falsification is minimized, but
interested party is eligible to re-check results. The samples
are stored in special refrigerator for 30 days.
The law machinery bodies required drug tests of 839 citizens in
September while the same figure in October was 1415 according to
Elene Kavsadze, head of drug division of the National Bureau of
Forensic Expertise. Two of them appealed test results but
secondary trial demonstrated the same.
New express methods of drug testing are launched already in
Kakheti, Ajara, Imereti, Samtskhe-Javakheti, Samegrelo, Shida
and Kvemo Kartli regional entities of the National Bureau.
9 November, 2006
Minister of Justice Participates in Conference in Moscow
The Minister of
Justice of Georgia participates in the conference organized by
the Council of Europe and government of Russian Federation in
Moscow.
The event is
dedicated to European collaboration in criminal justice issues;
Ministers of Justice and Internal Affairs of member states
participate in the conference.
The conference
is second event within the CoE framework since Russia-Georgia
stand-off. Recently the meeting of Justice Ministers was held in
Yerevan were Mr Kavtaradze talked about human rights violations
toward Georgian citizens and xenophobia.
Minister of
Justice will address the same issues during the Moscow event.
9 November, 2006
246 Forgers Revealed in the Civil Registry Agency
246
passports, IDs and other documents have been forged according to the
Civil Registry Agency data since January 2006. Thereof, 100 cases
have been uncovered during recent two months. Criminal cases have
been launched against law violators.
The briefing of
Giorgi Vashadze head of the Civil Registry Agency was dedicated to
aforesaid concerns.
The price list of
forgers fluctuates from GEL 50 to GEL 2000. They act both in Georgia
and abroad Mr Vashadze reported. Forgers extend terms of passports;
sometimes even owners know nothing about violations.
The IDs are also
forged using high tech possibilities. Falsifiers swap photos such
group was arrested in Kutaisi 2 weeks ago.
There are two kinds
of birth certificate falsifiers: one change data others print new
ones.
“New technologies
allow the Agency to identify all violations, so we’d like to notify
people to avoid forgers and apply to the civil Registry Agency for
all kind of civil documents” Mr Vashadze considered.
He also noted that
former employees of the system co-operate with criminals. Meanwhile
Kutaisi bureau employee was detained for ID forge attempt two months
ago.
Two falsifications
of ID and BC have been revealed in Rustavi today.
8 November, 2006
Penal
Reform Outcomes and Perspectives Discussed at the Government Meeting
Progress in penal
system and plans for 2007 year were the major issues of report of
Minister of Justice. Gia Kavtaradze has emphasized legislative progress,
infrastructure development, improvement of personnel conditions and
increased nourishment in penal facilities. The Ministry prepared draft
“Penal Code” and draft law on “Public Service in Penitentiary System of
the Ministry of Justice”. #6 Rustavi and # 2 Kutaisi detention
facilities were launched during 2006. Construction of new facility for
300 inmates in Gldani and rehabilitation of #2 Rustavi facility is
underway.
In budget of 2007 the
amount for nourishment and medical treatment of inmates has increased.
GEL 300 000 aimed for hospitalization and GEL 550 000 for medical
supplies. 2007 budget contemplates monthly GEL 50 per inmate
nourishment.
8 November, 2006
The Ministry Delegation Returned from Romania
The delegation of the Ministry of Justice has returned from 5 day visit to
Romania. The delegation headed by Deputy Minister Givi Mikanadze has met the
Minister of Justice of Romania Monica Macovei. They also held meetings with
Ionut Kodesku Justice Secretary of State; Attorney General Laura Kove also
heads of Penitentiary, Probation Departments and Forensic Expertise.
Alexander Arakishvili, head of the Department of Non-custodial Punishment
and Probation; Levan Gvidiani, Deputy Head of the National Bureau of
Forensic Expertise; and Giorgi Paniashvili, head of the International
Relations Coordination Division accompanied Mr Mikanadze.
Mr Mikanadze delivered invitation of Gia Kavtaradze to Ms Macovei.
Parties have discussed bilateral relations within the Memorandum of
Co-operation concerning information exchange and sharing of experience.
Penal system, probation, forensic expertise and legal assistance also topped
the agenda. Romanian party invited employees of the International Legal
Relations to pass probation.
The Delegation also informed Romania’s Minister of Justice and Attorney
General about current Russia-Georgia stand-off and xenophobia actions
against Georgian citizens in the Russian Federation.
The Romanian officials expressed their readiness to share their legal
experience with Georgia and foster country’s European integration.
8 November, 2006
The Government Approved the Draft Law on “Free Legal Assistance”
Gia Kavtaradze presented the draft law on “Free Legal Assistance” to the
government, prepared within the Criminal Justice Reform strategy.
The draft project is aimed to improve free legal assistance and provide
efficient protection of the right of defense guaranteed in the Constitution
of Georgia. The initiative allows citizens to get free legal consulting and
assistance for impoverished population.
The acting scheme of support fails to provide people in poverty.
Therefore, the project implies 3 forms of implementation. The legal
assistance bureaus, attorneys registered in Public Attorney Register and
also tenders are to be announced to choose legal service suppliers. New
approach implies creation of body overlooking the system nationwide. The
organization will check quality of service and responsibility. The draft law
makes comprehensive determination of eligible people and benefits. Also the
authority will control budget.
Meanwhile, free legal consulting will be available for every citizen of
Georgia.
The draft law is fully harmonized with all international standards,
including EU directives, European Convention of Human Rights and Civil
Liberties, case law of the European Court of Human Rights.
7 November, 2006
Minister of Justice Leaving for Moscow
The Delegation of the Ministry of Justice is leaving for Moscow to take part
in the conference – “European Co-operation in Criminal Matters”. Gia
Kavtaradze is to head of delegation.
The conference is organized by the Council of Europe and government of
Russian Federation, Ministers of Justice and Internal Affairs of member
states to participate in the event.
Mr Kavtaradze made several remarks for press and noted that the conference
is second event within the CoE framework since Russia-Georgia stand-off.
Recently the meeting of Justice Ministers was held in Yerevan were he talked
about human rights violations toward Georgian citizens and xenophobia.
Apparently Mr Kavtaradze will address the same issues.
7 November, 2006
Fortified Citizens Paid Fines
The Enforcement Department of the Ministry of Justice has received
enforcement order of administrative fines towards attendees of the Sandro
Girgvliani trial.
Fined MP Manana Nachkebia and Shalva Natelashvili refused to make payments.
The Enforcement Bureau appealed to the Parliament body to deduct amount GEL
100 from MP’s salary.
The leader of Labor Party has to pay GEL 400, but he rejected the payment.
According to his position the fine is illegal. The Bureau will be able to
enforce the Court order.
Regarding other fined citizens Tina Khidasheli from Republican Party paid
fine GEL 100. Attorney Shalva Shavgulidze and Alexander Chkheidze paid GEL
200 and 100 accordingly.
7 November, 2006
Minister of Justice Congratulated Notaries
Gia
Kavtaradze Minister of Justice of Georgia congratulated Notaries with
professional Day and awarded seven successful: Nino Maskhulia, Raiana
Charkseliani, Tsiuri Beridze, Besik Bulia, Khatuna Kalandarishvili, Irina
Devdariani and Tinatin Koberidze.
Mr Kavtaradze emphasized the importance of notary and the draft law aimed to
improve activity along with the Chamber of Notary.
The Notary Day is related to the memory day of Christian Martyrs Markiane
and Martvili. They were notaries in Constantinople in 4th century. Markiane
and Martvili wrote clerical literature and epistles. Once they rejected to
approve forgery and were punished. The Christian Church canonized them. The
day is been celebrated since 2002.
The Chamber of Notary plans several charitable arrangements. They will
provide Dzegvi Children’s Home with grocery and financially support two
families living in poverty.
7 November, 2006
Manual for pretrial detention prison-keepers
The Training Center of Penitentiary and Probation Service with financial
support of the NORLAG has published manual for pretrial detention
prison-keepers.
The book overviews pretrial detention practice and in-order of penal
facilities; also international and local standards of criminal treatment,
security and rights of offenders.
The manual could improve and facilitate everyday activity of prison-keepers.
7 November, 2006
Convict fell as a Victim of Tuberculosis
Zaur T. 28, has died in the Medical Facility of the DEP of the Ministry of
Justice of Georgia.
He suffered from tuberculosis and pulmonary pleura; he had pulmonary
decompensation.
According to preliminary information death was caused by cardiovascular
collapse developed due to pulmonary toxicity.
Mr T was accused of thievery and illegal bearing of arms and was arrested on
April 4, 2006.
6 November, 2006
Procedure facilitation for Iurmungalo residents
Gia
Kavtaradze Minister of Justice; Petre Tsiskarishvili President’s
Representative in Kakheti Region, Valeri Tsertsvadze Secretary of the High
Council of Justice and MP Gia Natsvlishvili have visited Iurmungalo village.
The visit was dedicated to procedure facilitation of issuing IDs and
passports for local residents.
In order to ease the procedures for Iurmungalo residents the High Council of
Justice along with the Ministry of Justice managed to delegate judge and
representatives of the Agency of Civil Registry to the village.
After confirmation of jural facts the Agency representatives issue birth
certificates and IDs.
The village residents faced problems in both cases especially of home born
children. The civil register issues certificates only after submission of
medical record, but because the lack of medical facility people were unable
to receive certificates.
According to the Ministry of Justice there are 2000 residents in Iurmungalo.
The only way of personal identification is confirmation of jural fact by the
court. The people were able to appeal to the Court of Sagarejo and present
witnesses. These procedures referred to additional expenditures.
“There are people who do not have IDs and birth certificates in our country.
We designed special system in order to facilitate procedures. Hence, we will
reach every region facing the same problem Marneuli, Mountainous Ajara and
Ninotsminda” Minister of Justice considered.
Mr Tsiskarishvili has emphasized the role of the Ministry of Justice and
noted the declining number of residents experiencing the lack of documents.
24 residents of Iurmungalo have received IDs. The procedures of jural fact
confirmation and document issuing are to take approximately 1 month.
6 November, 2006
Convict Died in the Medical Facility
Amiran P. 86, has died in the Medical Facility of the DEP of the Ministry of
Justice of Georgia.
He was hospitalized from #7 Ksani facility on September 9, 2006.
According to preliminary information death was caused by cardiovascular
collapse developed due to progressive atherosclerosis.
Mr P was sentenced to 7 years of jail for murder; he was arrested in October
2005.
6 November, 2006
HIV/AIDS Tests Continue
The Penitentiary System Reform, Medical Supervision and Monitoring
Department of the Ministry of Justice along with National Center for
Clinical Immunology and HIV/AIDS continue to test convicts. Doctors have
visited #3 Batumi prison today.
According to Doctor Turashvili of the Ministry of Justice tests are
voluntary, but nobody refused blood examination.
The HIV/AIDS tests began in detention facilities throughout Georgia on
September 20, 2006.
5 November, 2006
The Draft Law Concerning National Archive is Developed
The
Ministry of Justice of Georgia has completed work on the draft law on
“National Backlog and National Archive”. The purpose of the law is to
optimize the system and implement new management strategy.
The draft law implies to create independent legal entity of the Ministry of
Justice on the basis of the Department of Record Keeping and State Archives’
Management – the National Archive.
The project involves new approach to the system, modifies the theme of
archive, sources of fill up and property ownership principles as well.
All details of the proceedings in archive are covered in the draft law; also
fees and tariffs of service are fixed in the paper.
The law is in accordance with international standards and recommendations of
the International Council of Archives (ICA).
The draft law is already submitted to the Parliament.
4 November, 2006
The Agency of Civil Registry has Served 1 300 000 Citizens
Tbilisi
Marriott Hotel has hosted enlarged meeting of the Agency of Civil Registry.
Head of Agency Giorgi Vashadze has opened the event and presented report of
fulfilled work during10 months and future plans.
The Agency of Civil Registry was founded on January 30, 2006 as an
independents legal entity. According to Mr Vashadze the Agency has served 1
300 000 citizens. 615 480 IDs, 52 545 primary birth certificates, 18 022
certificates of marriage have been issued among other documents.
The system of the Civil Registry has changed significantly and facilitated
service for citizens. Four territorial bureaus have been renovated; the
short-terms for IDs and passports have been launched; also courier service
was implemented. Territorial and quantitative restrictions have been
abolished and along with 32 paged passports 48 paged one will be available
from 2007.
Mr Vashadze informed employees about recent legal amendments related to the
Agency activity, also upcoming IT innovations were discussed.
The web site of the Agency and renovation of about 20 territorial bureaus
are planed in nearest future.
In 2007 the software development will continue; also educational visits for
employees abroad are in the agenda and advanced system of human resources
management will is to enter into force.
3 November, 2006
Inventory Arranged at the Tbilisi Registration Office
The schedule of the Tbilisi Registration Office of the National Bureau of
Public Registry of the Ministry of Justice has changed due to inventory
process launched recently.
The administration has limited the time for of application receiving from
9:00 a.m. to 14:00 p.m. except weekends. Generally working hours of the
Office are from 9:00 a.m. to 18:00 p.m.
3 November, 2006
Austrian Experts Hold Seminar for the Ministry Employees
Two
day seminar has been launched for employees of the Civil Registry Agency and
Human Resources Department, also for Departments of Registration of
Normative Acts and Relations with Local Authorities. The seminar is held by
Austrian experts invited within the partnership framework of the Training
Center for Justice and Municipality of Austrian city of Wels.
Three main issues top the seminar agenda: human resources management, civil
register proceedings and supervision of local self government.
The seminars within Tbilisi and Wels cooperation have been permanent for
last two years. The participants are from the Ministry of Justice, City Hall
and other public or private organizations as well.
The Austrian delegation visited Georgia in mid October, the meeting with
representatives of the Training Center for Justice highlighted plans of
future collaboration.
3 November, 2006
Deputy Minister has Met World Bank Representatives
Deputy Minister of Justice Dimitri Dzagnidze has met World Bank
representatives Zhana Kunitsova and Elene Imnadze.
Deputy Minister has provided the guests with in depth information about
Ministry’s activity. He emphasized the Criminal Justice Reform strategy,
also law enforcement and non-custodial punishment and probation issues. Mr
Dzagnidze talked about upcoming modification of the State Archive.
3 November, 2006
Inmate of the Medical Facility died
Archil K. 82, died in the Medical Facility of the Department of Execution of
Punishments of the Ministry of Justice on November 2.
Mr K was hospitalized from #5 Prison on October 31.
According to preliminary report the death was caused by senile
cardiovascular collapse.
Mr K was arrested for murder attempt in June 2006.
2 November, 2006
Discussion of New Criminal Procedural Code is Launched
The Legal Issues Committee of the Parliament of Georgia has launched debates
concerning draft of Criminal Procedural Code.
The Draft code was elaborated within the Criminal Justice Reform Strategy.
Dimitri Dzagnidze Deputy Minister of Justice introduced the draft project to
the MPs.
The key issue of new code is the principle of competition between the
parties during the proceedings and preliminary investigation as well.
According to amendments the terms of accusation is reduced from 48 to 24
hours. The maximum term for submitting the case under consideration of the
court is 45 days; meanwhile the term for proceeding is limited to 9 months.
The minimum bail is reduced to GEL 1000; the old margin was GEL 2000.
The jury is one of major innovations. 12 assizers to pass verdicts (first
phase implies to involve jurats in case of torture and corruption); they
will announce verdict and give recommendations concerning
reduction/extension of terms of sentence.
2 November, 2006
Presents for Juvenile Inmates
Juveniles
and mothers of infant children from #5 Women and Juvenile Facility of the
Department of Execution of Punishments of the Ministry of Justice of Georgia
got presents from UNICEF. New pillows, blankets and bed-cloths were
distributed among convicts. 105 juveniles and 3 mothers of infant children
are currently in the facility.
120 inmates of Juvenile Educational Facility received presents from UNICEF
on October 30.
The arrangement was joint initiative of UNICEF and the Department
Monitoring, Penal Reform and Medical Supervision of the Ministry of Justice
of Georgia.
1 November, 2006
Chief of the Minister’s Bureau Meets Inmates
Elene
Lagvilava chief of the Minister’s Bureau has met inmates of the Women and
Juvenile Facility. She has observed conditions of the prison.
Detainees did not express any complains regarding detention conditions;
general remarks concerned the dates of investigation procedures.
Ms Lagvilava visited the hairdresser salon; currently 14 inmates attend
stylist courses.
The project of the Department of Execution of Punishments is supported by
NORLAG. About 60 detainees are in the list of applicants, the duration of
course is 1 month.
1 November, 2006
1771 Income Statements Requested in October
21 inquiries entered the Information Bureau of Public Officials’ Property
and Financial Declarations since October 16. The interested parties
requested income statements of 1747 declarants. Overall declarations of 1771
government officials have been demanded during October.
For instance, in comparison with September figures the interest has
increased, as several non-profit organizations submitted their inquiries.
Income statements of only 52 officials were demanded in September.
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