1 December 2008

Media release – for immediate use

Note: This statement accompanies one from the International Bar Association on the same subject – http://www.ibanet.org/iba/article.cfm?article=200

Fiji – Rule of Law

"The International Bar Association, of which the New Zealand Law Society is a member, is a highly respected organisation representing lawyers, law societies and bar associations worldwide,” Law Society President John Marshall QC said today (1 December).

“It takes a particular interest in ensuring that the Rule of Law is adhered to around the world and the IBA has often sent missions to various countries to investigate the rule of law and the administration of justice.

“Last year, for instance, these included Zimbabwe, Poland, Iran, Colombia, Uganda, Pakistan and Venezuela, so it is very disappointing that, for the second time this year, Fiji is making it clear that an IBA visit would not be welcome there.

“The New Zealand Law Society urges Fiji's Attorney-General to reconsider his position and to allow this independent review to take place," John Marshall said.

ENDS

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