Revised Laws of Saint Lucia (2023)

6.   Powers of investigation

In conducting an investigation the Commission—

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   (a)     subject to section 16(1), may adopt its own procedure;

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   (b)     may exclude the public and media from its sittings;

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   (c)     shall proceed with as little formality and technicality and with as much expedition as the requirements of this Act and proper investigation of the matter permit;

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   (d)     is not bound by the rules of evidence but may inform itself of any matter in such a manner as it considers appropriate;

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   (e)     is bound by the rule of natural justice;

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   (f)     may—

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      (i)     summon a person to attend meetings of the Commission and to answer questions put to him or her by members of the Commission,

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      (ii)     request certified copies of documents, records, reports and statements relevant to a complaint from a health service provider, the Minister or a person making a complaint provided that a person's medical records shall not be requested by or provided to the Commission except with that person's consent in writing,

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      (iii)     request information from health service providers and users concerning the working of the health services complaints system,

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      (iv)     permit an interested person to appear before it to be represented by Counsel or another person in any proceedings under this Act.