Dominica Bar Association (DBA) says it strongly condemns recent Social Media attacks on Judiciary Members

​In a release, the Dominica Bar Association (DBA) wishes to strongly condemn recent attacks on members of the judiciary being circulated on social media, including attacks on resident Justice Birnie Stephenson, and Caribbean Court of Justice President Sir Dennis Byron.
 
The Association further categorically condemns statements made by a litigant before the court about the President of the CCJ Sir Dennis Byron. This litigant is not a member of the Dominica Bar Association.
 
The DBA release quoted the words of Lord Atkin, “justice is not a cloistered virtue: she must be allowed to suffer the scrutiny and respectful comments of ordinary men”.
 
The release stated that the DBA unequivocally supports freedom of expression, and the right of individuals to voice their personal opinions and concerns about the Administration of Justice in society.
 
However, the DBA added, ‘if we are to strengthen respect for the Rule of Law in a democratic society, such statements should be constructive and fair, and should be made to the appropriate authorities in a dignified manner, and using the correct procedure. This is absolutely necessary if they are to be given serious attention in the proper forum.
 
The Dominica Bar Association further stated that the recent statements only serve to weaken the public's confidence in the Judiciary and the Judicial System, and such statements should not be encouraged.