Mary Francis Calls for Improved Access To Legal Aid

Mary Francis, long-time activist and Director of the National Centre for Legal Aid and Human Rights Inc. is calling on the Saint Lucia government to take more robust action in improving access to justice for economically disadvantaged citizens. According to Francis, the current focus—such as appointing more magistrates, expanding the police force, and constructing a new courthouse—is insufficient. “It’s not just about more magistrates or a new courthouse,” she told the St. Lucia Times. “…Having a new court building is not going to help the situation unless there is greater access to legal aid by the indigent people in Saint Lucia.” The outspoken attorney at law has consistently advocated for accessible legal services, underscoring the role of legal aid in social equity. “I think legal aid is a very important aspect of development and justice,” she said, emphasising that it “should be placed in the hierarchy of social needs, the same way that health and education are provided for by the state.” Highlighting the scope of legal needs beyond criminal cases, Francis pointed out that civil matters also require attention. “You have housing for instance, people have been evicted in a forceful, illegal manner. Let’s look at those things!” She...