October opening planned for ECSC headquarters relocation
CASTRIES, St Lucia — The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court is preparing to shift its headquarters to the Orange Grove Plaza in Gros Islet, following a government and stakeholder tour of the site on August 28.
The visit was led by Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, Minister for the Public Service, Labour and Gender Affairs. She said the relocation is aimed at enhancing working conditions for judicial staff and ensuring the Court’s operations are fully supported.
“The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court is central to safeguarding the rule of law across member states,” Albert-Poyotte said. “This initiative underscores our commitment to providing judicial officers and employees with facilities that allow them to carry out their duties effectively.”
Officials have confirmed that Orange Grove Plaza meets the operational standards required by the Court, offering modern infrastructure and space to support its day-to-day functions. Government representatives expect to formally take possession of the facility in the coming weeks. If assessments are completed as planned, a ceremonial opening is anticipated in October.
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, created in 1967, delivers justice across nine member states and territories. Its responsibilities include interpreting laws, overseeing trials and appeals, and upholding judicial standards throughout the Eastern Caribbean.
The Orange Grove Plaza development was introduced under former prime minister Allen Chastanet. At the time, the Saint Lucia Labour Party strongly opposed the project while in opposition and later criticized it after taking office. Concerns over government spending and accountability have been a recurring theme, as highlighted in previous reports on Saint Lucia government waste. Despite political disagreements, the government has since advanced the site as the future home of the Court.
The relocation is expected to improve efficiency within the regional judicial system and reinforce confidence in the administration of justice across the Eastern Caribbean.
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