Dear Members
As some of you may know, the late Honourable Mr Justice Cecil Kelsick passed away last Wednesday September 27, 2017 at the age of 97.
Mr. Justice Cecil Arthur Kelsick was born in Dominica. In 1938, he attained a scholarship to study Law abroad at King’s College, University of London. He was called to the Bar at the Inner Temple in 1941 and admitted to the Bar of the Supreme Court of the Windward and Leeward Islands in 1942. Mr. Justice Kelsick migrated to Trinidad to serve the country in the field of law where he initially served as legal draughtsman and Solicitor-General from 1957- 66.
On the 1st February 1961, he was appointed as Puisne Judge in the High Court. In 1966-1979 Justice Kelsick acceded to Chairmanship of the Tax Appeal Board where he served for a period of thirteen years.
The Honourable Justice Kelsick was appointed in Court of Appeal Judge in 1980. In 1983, the Justice Kelsick ascended to the third highest office, the Chief Justice, where he served for a period of two years.
Whilst his professional accomplishments remain unblemished he remained committed to developing the education and sport for the youth, serving as Vice President of the Scout Association, President of Harvard Sports Club and a Member of the Board of Management of Holy Name Convent. In 1983-1985 Justice Kelsick served as Chairman of the Council of Legal Education and Chairman Law Commission.
In 1985, Chief Justice Kelsick received the country’s then highest award, the Trinity Cross for Distinguished and Outstanding Service to Trinidad and Tobago.
We join with the rest of the nation in offering condolences to his family and friends.
Please see the attached a statement from the Judiciary on the passing of Mr. Justice Kelsick.
In honour of his memory, condolence books have been placed in the lobby areas of the Hall of Justice, San Fernando and Tobago Supreme Court respectively. Members of staff and other well-wishers are invited to sign the condolence book at the respective locations between the stipulated hours of work until Friday October 6th, 2017.
ELENA ARAUJO
SECRETARY
Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT)
