Attorney General, Leslie Mondesir, is making a case for Creole to be used in courtrooms in Saint Lucia.
“You want Saint Lucians to own the court? Then speak to us in our native language,” he said at the Opening of the Law Year on Friday.
The AG said he is well aware that Chief Justice Mario Michel, “is versed in Creole… and as I look … here today I see a number of Saint Lucians sitting on the bench.”
“As we commence the Law Year, let us reaffirm our commitment to the principles of accessibility, equality and awareness, and creating a legal system that serves everyone, ensuring that all citizens of the OECS feel empowered to seek justice and participate in our legal system,” he said.
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) ushered in the opening of the Law Year at the National Cultural Centre.
“This year’s theme… provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in improving access to justice and increasing legal awareness within our region. It speaks to the core of the judicial mission in the Eastern Caribbean – a mission that seeks to make justice, not a remote ideal but an everyday reality for all. It invites us to reaffirm our commitment to the enduring values of justice, equality and accessibility,” AG Mondesir said.
Furthermore, he stated, “The core of our justice system is underpinned by the principle that all citizens have the right to equal protection under the law. This means that the court must always provide a fair and impartial hearing and also ensure that these services are readily available to all regardless of their educational background, financial situation or knowledge of the law. If we believe that justice is a fundamental pillar of any democratic society, it is imperative that citizens of member states feel that justice is accessible in all areas by virtue of the ability to approach the court.”
He also listed some of the Court’s accomplishments.
“The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court has attempted to dismantle some of the geographic and financial challenges that have historically limited access to justice in our region. The introduction of virtual courts and remote hearings are tangible steps in that regard. By embracing technology, those jurisdictions have enabled individuals from remote locations to participate in hearings without the need to travel long distances. It means therefore that individuals and legal practitioners who live and work across the region and beyond can now participate in the juridical process at significantly reduced costs without the logistical barriers which previously hindered them,” he said.
Additionally, he noted, the ECSC has further demonstrated its willingness to embrace technology with the launch of the e-litigation portal.
“This allows for the filing of proceedings and documents anywhere at any time,” the AG stated.