21 New JPs For Portland

The complement of Justices of the Peace (JPs) serving the parish of Portland was increased on February 5 when 21 new persons were sworn in at a special function held at the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) in the parish.
Custos of the parish, Roy Thompson presided over the ceremony, which was attended by a large gathering, including friends and relatives of the JPs, and a number of persons representing several organizations in the parish. With the new appointments, there are now 192 JPs serving the parish. Addressing the function, Senior Resident Magistrate for Portland, Bertram Morrison said the role and responsibilities of JPs were not to be taken lightly, as they were critical to the successful operation of the justice system and the maintenance of good order in the society.
He noted that the country’s justice system was under siege because of the high incidence of criminal activities, adding that the JPs were among the bastions of that system. He exhorted the new members to carry out their work at all times with the highest level of integrity.
Mr. Morrison congratulated them on their appointment and assured them that they could rely on him for assistance and support at all times.
In his remarks, Custos Thompson encouraged the new JPs to always aim to give good service to their communities, and pointed out that their appointment created an additional avenue through which they could serve their fellow citizens.
Responding on behalf of his colleagues, Mr. Lamey said they were grateful for the opportunity to widen their service to their communities.
He assured that they would pursue their responsibilities in accordance with the finest traditions of the office.