AG says return of silk shows 'dignity, humility and honour'

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan issued a statement Friday night, saying the decision of Chief Justice Ivor Archie and Justice of Appeal Wendell Kangaloo to return the instruments which granted them the title of Senior Counsel was "consistent with the dignity, humility and honour that inspired their appointment as Senior Counsel".

Ramlogan said the "strong criticism by senior members of the legal profession was unfortunate in light of the established precedent, but highlights the need for genuine and meaningful dialogue about the current system for the award of silk".

The AG noted that both men placed "the Judiciary, the administration of justice and most importantly country, before personal recognition".

He acknowledged that the "growing chorus of strong adverse sentiment expressed had the potential to undermine and damage the judicial arm of the State", adding that it was "a pity that these criticisms were not articulated before when the precedent for making such an appointment was established".

He said, "In every crisis there is an opportunity, and the Bar must now use this opportunity for critical self-examination. A frank evaluation is required of the status of the legal profession and its role in society.

"There are many in our society who are of the view that the legal profession has not lived up to its expectation or fulfilled its social responsibility. Those that are in need of justice the most seem to have the least access to it. There is a clear need for more attorneys (senior and junior) to do pro bono legal work. This could certainly be a criterion for future SC appointments.

"The Government is committed to the policy and vision outlined by the Prime Minister at the appointment ceremony. There is a need to recognise the multifaceted and diverse nature of the legal profession. 

"There are many lawyers who contribute and serve the people and system in different ways that deserve honour and recognition. The Government is committed to ensuring that the State recognises excellence and devotion to duty in all categories and forms in the legal profession," the statement said.