Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre says Cabinet is considering calls for an independent Commission of Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the murder of 24-year-old Joy St. Omer, with a decision expected by September 7.
Pierre addressed the issue during a pre-Cabinet press conference on August 25, amid growing public concern over the systems and institutional responses intended to protect victims of domestic violence.
The Prime Minister said the Government has not yet taken a position on whether to establish an inquiry.
“We’ve not said no, we’ve not said yes. It’s under consideration,” Pierre said.
He explained that the matter was being considered by Cabinet, although several ministers were absent due to travel.
“And this morning the Cabinet, it’s very unfortunate that I don’t have a full Cabinet this morning, ministers and travel, but we’ll consider to see what can be done,” he said.
Pierre stressed that establishing a Commission of Inquiry was a serious decision that could not be taken without consideration of the circumstances surrounding the case.
“Now commission of inquiry is something that we can’t just, I can’t just say yes or no,” he said.
The Prime Minister also sought to make clear that the Government remains concerned about the circumstances surrounding deaths in Saint Lucia, including the death of St. Omer.
“I just want to make it clear, I want to make it clear that the government is very concerned as to the circumstances that surround all deaths,” Pierre said.
St. Omer’s family has called for an independent review of how domestic violence cases are handled and has urged the public to support a petition for a Commission of Inquiry.
Her mother, Bertilia St. Omer, has said her daughter repeatedly sought assistance from the police, courts and agencies responsible for gender relations before her death.
Pierre said the Government would be prepared to make changes if an examination of the circumstances surrounding the case demonstrates that existing systems or procedures require reform.
“In terms of that one, if the circumstances warrant any changes in the system, the processes, the government will surely initiate it,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s comments come as public scrutiny continues over whether existing mechanisms for responding to domestic violence are adequate to protect victims who report abuse.
A Cabinet decision on the proposed Commission of Inquiry is expected to determine whether an independent examination will be established to assess the circumstances surrounding St. Omer’s death and the operation of the systems intended to protect victims of domestic violence.