Over half a million dollars in grant will be given to three civil society organisations to undertake the Fiji Access to Justice Project.

Funded by the European Union, the project is aimed at empowering people to access legal services.

The funds will be utilised by Medical Services Pacific, Empower Pacific and the Fiji Disabled Peoples Federation to provide counselling and protection support services.

Legal Aid Commission Acting Director Shahin Ali says the project will raise more awareness and at the same time create more understanding of legal rights.

“It’s about improving the Fijian Justice system of which we are a pivotal part, ladies and gentlemen this cooperation is indeed meant to improve Fiji’s justice sector needs and accessibility to our fellow Fijians”

The project will also include rural and maritime communities.