Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc called for the improvement of free legal services available for the poor at a conference hosted by the Vietnam Justice Support Association for the Poor (VIJUSAP) in Ho Chi Minh City on December 15.

Addressing the event, Phuc said as the State’s legal assistance has recently been formed, the provision of legal support for people, in particular the underprivileged, is an urgent issue for both the State and society.

The Prime Minister will direct local ministries and departments to formulate assistance accessible by the poor in a practical and effective manner, Phuc said.

Dr Ta Minh Ly, VIJUSAP Chairman, said the association’s six centres have provided legal counsel for thousands of cases and engaged in legal procedures for the poor, women, children, immigrant workers, people with disabilities, ethnic minorities and families of deceased soldiers.

Ly said VIJUSAP plans to open an additional 16 centres in the time to come.

Established on May 6, 2011, VIJUSAP is a non-profit organisation made up of volunteers and people working in legal support.-VNA