South lawyers stay off the job

SOUTH lawyers yesterday made good on their promise to withhold their service at the San Fernando Magistrates’ Court. Approximately 30 lawyers turned up outside the court yesterday but did no work as a mark of protest  and refused to enter the derelict courthouse that was condemned by the San Fernando City Corporation as “unfit for human occupation.” Spokesman for the disgruntled attorneys, Chateram Sinanan, stated the  promise of acquiring a new building to house the court between six to eight months, given by Chief Justice Sat Sharma, never came to pass. “We are fed up and no longer listening to promises,” Sinanan said.

He added that the deadline given by the San Fernando City Corporation’s Health Department, for remedial work on the San Fernando Magistrates’ Court expired last Friday. “We are concerned about our health and the well-being of everyone. The health of prisoners is at stake. The stench from the prisoner’s dock inside the Second Court is unbearable,” Sinanan complained. The attorneys said they are withholding their services until next week Wednesday. “If no measures are made to repair the building or relocate, a decision will be taken on Wednesday as to further action,” he concluded. Magistrates who turned out for work yesterday, were forced to adjourn matters as lawyers refused to give counsel to their clients.