By Kisean Joseph & Tahna Weston
Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin has praised the significant contributions of the outgoing Industrial Court, President Charlesworth Brown, whose contract concluded on November 30 after more than a decade of service.
In reflecting on Brown’s tenure, which began in November 2013, Benjamin highlighted the president’s substantial impact on the development of industrial relations law in Antigua and Barbuda.
“I’ve had the opportunity of being associated with Mr Brown over many, many years, and especially when he became President of the Industrial Court,” Benjamin said. “He’s drafted and made practice directions and his judgments have all been very, very sound.”
The Attorney General particularly emphasised the quality of Brown’s legal decisions, noting their resilience upon review.
“When matters are appealed to the Privy Council, they’re seldom interfered with and overturned,” Benjamin remarked. “He has made a significant contribution to the development of industrial relations law in Antigua and Barbuda.”
Vice-President Samantha-May Francis is set to assume the role of acting president, with plans for her to be permanently appointed following the conclusion of her current contract.
Benjamin expressed confidence in Francis’s capabilities, citing her experience working alongside Brown. “The government recognised the deep knowledge, integrity, the efficiency, and the professionalism of Ms Samantha Francis, and she was given the opportunity of serving with Mr Brown for some time, knowing fully well that the time for his tenure would come to an end,” he explained.
Benjamin praised Francis’ standing within the legal community, stating: “She has earned the respect of all legal practitioners and persons involved in industrial relations in Antigua and Barbuda. They all think very highly of her.”
He expressed optimism about her future contributions, noting, “She’s young. She has many, many years, God’s willing, to serve that capacity, and I know that she’ll follow the footsteps of Mr Brown and make a tremendous contribution to industrial law in Antigua and Barbuda.”
While no official explanation has been provided regarding the decision not to renew Brown’s contract, Benjamin acknowledged the transition as a natural progression. “As the saying goes, there’s time for everything,” he remarked, adding, “The government fully appreciates his contribution and I wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
The transition marks a new chapter for the Industrial Court, with Francis positioned to build upon the foundation established during Brown’s tenure while bringing her expertise to the role.
