I’m concern at the trend, says Talasasa
DIRECTOR of Public Prosecutions Ronald Bei Talasasa says he’s gravely concern about the future of his office.
Mr Talasasa raised this after three of his senior prosecutors will be leaving shortly to join the Magistrate’s Court.
“I’m very concerned about the future of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP),” Mr Talasasa told the Solomon Star.
“The ODPP requires appropriate skilled and experienced people especially at the top management level,” he added.
Mr Talasasa said it is not uncommon for lawyers in government service to leave for private practice or for other lucrative job elsewhere outside of the Public Service after serving only five years or some less.
“But for an office like the ODPP, it is very important to retain experience.
“At present, the future looks bright but I am a bit concern that relates to the looming departure of three senior prosecutors which leaves the ODPP with huge gap.
“That gap will need to be narrowed and I hope that the lawyers remaining in the office will choose to remain a little longer,” Mr Talasasa said.
He said the main issue that has been expressed by lawyers in the office and other lawyers relate to terms and condition of service.
Mr Talasasa added that other issues hinge on security both at the office and at home.
“I’m hopeful that these issues be addressed immediately.
“We have been raising these issues over and over again in the past and I hope that there is resolution for that in 2015.”
He said the changing circumstances that now prevail warrant the call that prosecutors be looked after well.
Mr Talasasa had raised this matter to the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs.
He added the staff (lawyers and admin) of the Offices of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Public Solicitor should have their terms and conditions of service reviewed and improved.
“Matters in relation to their security at home (their places of residence) and at the office should be considered urgently.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs Freddy Me’esa could not be reached for comments.
But in the Democratic Coalition for Change (DCC) Government’s policy statement launched this week, it offers to establish and formalise a scheme of service for lawyers and judges.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
