State attorneys get Criminal Bar backing

The Criminal Bar Association (CBA) has come out in support of State attorneys taking sickout action to force Government for a better pay packet. But in the meantime, legal sources are saying that Government is planning to hire private help if State attorneys are not back on the job by Monday. Sources also said that Government has warned some contract attorneys to get their act together or face the consequences.

The CBA yesterday said: “It notes with growing concern the dislocation in the administration of justice over the past few days, particularly in the Criminal Courts. “The association has repeatedly voiced concern over the apparent inability of the powers that be to recognise the necessary link between reasonable terms and conditions for State attorneys and the proper administration of justice. “The truth of the matter is that the fight against crime is lost from the beginning if the persons who are responsible for prosecuting these matters are disenchanted and underpaid. “The association calls upon the Government to settle as a matter of highest priority this long outstanding dispute with the State attorneys.

In the past, the Executive has acted with much greater despatch in dealing with matters which have not been, in our view, as central to the proper administration of justice. “There should therefore be no hesitation in immediately resolving this issue.” The Association of Legal Officers, which represents State attorneys, is hoping that Government will expedite and process their request for a better salary and perks before Monday. Meanwhile, several courts throughout the country remained inactive for a third day as protest action by State attorneys continues.