The justice critic is calling on the provincial government to provide a status update on staffing in the provincial court system.

On numerous occasions in recent days, media and the public have been barred from certain court proceedings because of a shortage of sheriff’s officers.

Yesterday, all matters called in Courtroom 7 were closed to the public.

MHA Pam Parsons is hearing similar concerns and is calling on the justice department to let the public know what’s happening.

“This is a lack of access to justice; this is going to impact public confidence. If the media can’t attend, and the public can’t attend and sit in on these cases, especially those that are of interest to the public…that certainly erodes confidence, which ultimately erodes justice.”

The Justice department says the Office of the High Sheriff has seen some success in filling vacancies.

As of this week, eight new Sheriff’s Officers have been hired since April 1st.

Five Sheriff’s Officers have been hired to serve in St. John’s, Stephenville, Harbour Grace, Gander and Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

Meanwhile, three Sheriff’s Officers have been hired to work in Corner Brook.