News item | 09-09-2022 | 15:15
In the short term, the transport of detainees with serious security risks can be reduced. By amending the Videoconferencing Decree, the court can determine that a suspect participates in the hearing by videoconference. This avoids a serious safety risk during transport to and from the seat. The Council of Ministers has agreed to this on a proposal from Minister Yeşilgöz of Justice and Security.
The transport of certain suspects of serious crime, in particular to and from the Extra Secure Institution (EBI) in Vught, poses major safety risks. These risks can be reduced by using videoconferencing. This also minimizes the risk that suspects can still communicate with each other during a hearing. The Videoconferencing Decree is being amended so that the court can decide to use videoconferencing without the consent of the suspect or counsel if there are serious security risks during the transport of the suspect to and from the hearing. In doing so, he ignores the suspect’s right to be present.
Earlier this year there was a consultation for the amendment of the Video Conference Decree. The Council of Ministers has now agreed to send the amendment to the Decree to the Council of State for advice. The intention is for the scheme to enter into force on 1 January 2023.
An order has been given to realize two rooms in the EBI where detainees, together with their lawyers, can participate digitally in their lawsuit. Due to the safety measures, the construction work takes more time than a regular construction activity. Nevertheless, the installation will be delivered this year and will be put into operation in the first half of 2023. The lawyer can choose whether to participate in the process with the client in the EBI or in the courtroom.