A tribunal had to be moved to another building after complaints were made about the level of mould.

A Royal Gazette reporter arrived at Booth Hall, where Supreme Court 4 is held, on Court Street yesterday to cover a tribunal and found the place nearly empty and one employee wearing a face mask.

The human rights tribunal was expected to hear a complaint by Khalid Wasi about the Bermuda Housing Corporation in the court, but had to be moved after lawyers complained about the level of mould in the room.

Permanent Secretary of Works and Engineering, Dr. Derrick Binns, said the Ministry had not done tests to determine what type of mould is in the building but that they “are aware of the difficulties with Booth Hall and are working to secure alternative accommodations”.

Dr. Binns added that the building, which does not belong to the Government, has not been closed and is only used when it is necessary.

He said: “We have a long term solution that will take some time to implement, but continue to work for a more immediate, temporary solution.

“Suitable space in Hamilton is difficult to find, but we continue to work on this matter as a priority.” He said he could not comment on what the Ministry’s long term plans are at the moment.

Chief Justice Richard Ground said the mould problems have resulted in the building being used less and less in recent times.

He said: “Until now Court Four has been the better of the two courts, and was regarded as useable. We will, obviously, now have to review that.

“The shortage of appropriate court and chambers accommodation does cause the judiciary real difficulties, but we are in discussions with Works & Engineering, and confident that they will find a solution.”