Members of the legal fraternity here gathered at the High Court of Justice yesterday morning to pay special tribute to a gentleman described as one of the most outstanding legal luminaries in the eastern Caribbean.

Having served as chief justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court among other highly respected legal positions, Sir Vincent Floissac passed away on Saturday, September 25.

A jurist and politician, Floissac also served as governor general in 1987-88 and the first president of the St. Lucian Senate in 1979. He also wore the hat of judicial committee member on the Privy Council, among others.

Sir Brian Alleyne, who spoke at the special sitting, attributed his own involvement in the legal fraternity to the efforts of Sir Floissac.

Attorney General Francine Baron-Royer lauded the former Privy Council member’s achievements, stating that he was committed to the public service.

President of the Bar Association Levi Peters expressed condolences to the family and friends of the late jurist.

Veteran lawyer Henry “Babs” Dyer also expressed sympathy on behalf of his family and alluded to the encounters with the late jurist.

He considers him to be one who presented excellent judgments during his stint as chief justice, Dyer said.

“We’ve lost a great jurist,” Dyer said, adding that Floissac who was bold and firm in interpreting the constitution.

Justice Albert Matthew spoke of the late legal professional as one whose  judgments were delivered speedily.

Resident Judge Birnie Stephenson-Brooks said her former colleague was a man of great dignity with a firm but gentle touch.

Floissac left behind twin adult daughters – one of whom has taken over his legal firm.

The former justice was an avid sportsman and devoted to his family. He represented St Lucia in several regional tennis competitions. He was also a footballer.