A delegation of European diplomats, led by EU Head of Delegation Ambassador Mikael Barfod, met Prime Minister Kenny Anthony in Castries (St Lucia) on 26 April.

The European diplomats noted that the vacancy of the Police Commissioner was officially filled from 1 April. They also noted that the recruitment of the Director of Public Prosecution, although delayed, is now underway with interviews scheduled for May.

The European delegation reiterated the importance of the new Director of Public Prosecution (when appointed) taking up allegations of extra judicial killings as a priority and for the government of St Lucia to provide all the necessary resources that the due process will require, in full respect of the independence of the judiciary branch.

This would boost the country’s international reputation as regards the upholding of the general principle of rule of law, an intrinsic part of democratic governance.

The European delegation offered support to deal with the general backlogs in the justice system in St Lucia, present in most Caribbean countries, through interventions financed under the Regional Indicative Program from the 11th European Development Fund.

The European Union and its Member States will continue to monitor the follow up given to serious accusations of extra judicial killings in St Lucia.