SPOTLIGHT

AGS in PNG (continued from home page)

Feedback on the training was overwhelmingly positive. The PNG Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) Secretary, Dr Lawrence Kalinoe, praised the 'wonderful job' Catherine and Sally did and said that, 'PNG public servants enthusiastically welcomed the training. As well as the many officers from the Department… that attended, officers from 11 other agencies also attended the training. This is a wonderful result for my country.'

Almost without exception, participants expressed the hope that more training would be provided in future, and that future courses would be made significantly longer:

'I think the course was very relevant to PNG. Ms Langman had a very good appreciation of PNG's history, laws and legal system. This was evident in the way the course was presented.'

'It opens up my understanding of the differences between the Constitution, policy making and practices and their relationship with each other.'

'First of its kind and should continue with such training as this is a law department whereby everyone, including non-legal staff, should/must understand law.'

'I greatly appreciate the time AGS has taken to run this training. This will assist me greatly in my line of work.'

AGS is looking to build a stronger partnership with DJAG. Our Canberra and Brisbane offices recently hosted a study visit by the PNG Solicitor-General, Neville Devete, and his delegation to share our experience of managing a modern government legal practice. Mr Devete said, 'The AGS officers we spoke to were, without fail, knowledgeable, informative, helpful, open and practical in their meetings with us. We very much appreciate the time they took out of their busy days to assist us.'

We hope that legal training in PNG will become a regular part of our pro bono program.

© Australian Government Solicitor