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The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services has applauded Legal Aid South Africa (LASA) for becoming the employer of choice with law students.

Committee Chairperson, Dr Mathole Motshekga, congratulated LASA on this achievement which was revealed during LASA’s briefing to the Committee on its 2015/16 budget on its strategic plan. Judge President Dunstan Mlambo, Chairperson of Legal Aid South Africa, made this revelation during the meeting and indicated that LASA had become the employer of choice with university students. This made LASA a preferred employer ahead of big law firms.

Dr Motshekga indicated that a surprise visit to the LASA clinic in Alexandra had impressed the Committee – the attitude of the staff and service delivery were excellent. The Committee further congratulated LASA on receiving an unqualified audit and no matters of emphasis from the Auditor-General over the last 13 years. “This is truly commendable,” Dr Motshekga said.

The Committee also expressed appreciation to LASA for its willingness to account to the Committee and its transparency. The Committee had during a previous meeting requested LASA to respond to questions and concern, which was duly complied with.

The Committee lauded LASA and Judge President Mlambo for their contribution to the development of legal aid institutions in the world and for the leadership provided in international forums.  The Committee called on Judge President Mlambo to use existing forums and platforms to share insights on his transformation agenda.

Issued by Parlimentary Communication Sevices on behalf of the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services