The Government of Saint Lucia continues to advance several justice sector reforms aimed at improving court efficiency, modernising elements of the justice system, and strengthening public confidence in the administration of justice.
The initiatives form part of broader efforts to improve citizen security, strengthen accountability and support safer communities across Saint Lucia.
Among the key reforms currently underway are the continued implementation of the Swift Justice Project and the Criminal Backlog Reduction Court, the expansion of virtual court operations at the Bordelais Correctional Facility, and continued upgrades to court infrastructure, including the refurbishment of the Soufriere Courthouse.
Swift Justice Project — Criminal Backlog Reduction Court
For many years, criminal matters in Saint Lucia remained before the courts for long periods, with some cases taking years to be heard and resolved.
On March 19, 2026, the Government of Saint Lucia officially opened the Criminal Backlog Reduction Court under the Swift Justice Project to expedite the handling of older criminal matters before the High Court.
The initiative focuses on:
- improving management of criminal cases;
- better scheduling and coordination of hearings;
- additional administrative and technical support; and
- stronger coordination among justice sector agencies.
Approximately 100 matters were disposed of between February and May 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to reduce delays within the criminal justice system.
Bordelais Virtual Courtroom Centre
The continued expansion of virtual court operations at the Bordelais Correctional Facility represents another step in modernising the justice system.
Using Zoom-based technology, inmates can appear remotely before the High Court and District Court for approved proceedings, including sufficiency hearings, case management conferences, status hearings, sentencing matters, and other procedural applications.
The initiative supports:
- faster and more efficient court operations;
- reduced delays in criminal matters;
- improved security and coordination; and
- greater access to justice.
The system also reduces the need to transport inmates between Bordelais and court facilities, helping improve efficiency and public safety.
Soufriere Courthouse Refurbishment
The refurbishment of the Soufriere Courthouse has improved space, strengthened safety and security measures and upgraded facilities for members of the public using the court.
The upgraded facility is expected to improve the overall operation of court matters in Soufriere while creating a safer and more functional environment for court staff, police officers, attorneys and the public.
The courthouse will also accommodate Family Court matters, improving access to justice for residents within Soufriere and surrounding communities.
Government notes that additional finishing works remain ongoing and are expected to be completed within the next two to three weeks.
Prevention and Rehabilitation
The Government is also continuing work toward developing Saint Lucia’s first National Crime Prevention Policy, informed by national surveys, statistical analysis, and evidence-based planning.
The policy is expected to guide programmes focused on early intervention, youth engagement and community-based violence prevention initiatives.
At the Bordelais Correctional Facility, modernisation efforts also continue with greater focus on rehabilitation, reintegration and skills development through expanded vocational, agricultural and inmate support programmes.
Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre has consistently maintained that safer communities require not only effective law enforcement, but also prevention, rehabilitation, stronger institutions and national partnership, a whole of society approach.
Government says continued investments in justice reform, prevention and institutional strengthening remain important to improving public confidence and supporting safer communities across Saint Lucia.