Obstacles to justice
published: Tuesday | August 8, 2006

The Editor, Sir:

On the August 1, 2006, we celebrated Emancipation, but are we really emancipated in the face of obstacles to the courts of justice by the vast majority of our people, the descendants of slaves? The rule of law is intended to be the foundation of the acquired Independence, but far too few have access to the courts for its enforcement because of prohibitive costs. It is, therefore, suggested that there should be legislation against all costs against all those who seek judicial review or damages and/or other reliefs against the State for the conduct of its servants. And by the way, because in law every man is liable for the natural consequences of his own act, the innocent public should not be called upon to bear all costs and damages awarded against the State. The servant who committed the act should either be made to pay in full or make a contribution; this would also act as check and balance against misconduct of public servants.

I am, etc.,

OWEN CROSBIE

oss@cwjamaica.com

3 Hotel Street

Mandeville

Manchester