The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) is moving to address the issue of homeless persons using the entrance of the Mandeville Courthouse as shelter.

A release sent from the MOJ said approximately five men have been occupying the entrance to the courthouse after work hours and weekends, and have started the dangerous practice of cooking on the stairway leading to the entrance.

The homeless people, it is reported, often leave piles of garbage on the compound and at the building's entrance, inconveniencing court staff and members of the public.

The release further stated that the ministry places the highest priority on security at the courthouse and has put measures in place to clear the area of debris and provide 24-hour security to prevent littering.

Court administrators have also sought assistance from the Parish Council, the Public Health Department, the National Solid Waste Management Authority, and a non-governmental agency that assists homeless persons, but the problem persists.