31 New Justices of the Peace Commissioned in Westmoreland

The cadre of Justices of the Peace (JPs) in Westmoreland has now climbed to just over 450, following the commissioning of 31 new appointees to the voluntary role.

The new JPs took the oath of office during a swearing-in and commissioning ceremony held at the Commingle Hotel in Savanna-la-Mar on January 29.

It marked another milestone in the strengthening of community-based justice and civic leadership in the parish.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Delroy Chuck, who presided over the ceremony, urged the newly commissioned JPs to uphold the highest standards of integrity as they enter what he described as an 800-year-old vocation.

“Your appointment is a recognition that you have been selected because the panel that interviewed you, saw in you persons of character, persons of integrity and persons who will uphold fairness, decency and justice,” he explained.

Mr. Chuck reminded the newly commissioned JPs that, although the position is voluntary, it carries significant weight and responsibility.

He cautioned that any misconduct by a single individual has the potential to erode public confidence in the entire body of 10,000 JPs across Jamaica.

As such, the Minister encouraged them to uphold the dignity of the office at all times, to resist negative influences, and to report any inappropriate behaviour by fellow justices through the proper channels.

“Once you’re a JP and you do something that is inappropriate, then everybody believes that that’s how JPs operate. So don’t allow anyone to coerce you into doing what is wrong,” Mr. Chuck underscored.

“So, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the Government, I congratulate you on your commissioning and thank you for answering the call. Be proactive and make people see that you’re doing good community work,” he added.

Meanwhile, Custos Rotulorum of Westmoreland, Hon. Reverend Canon Hartley Perrin, challenged the new JPs to regard their recent training as only the beginning of their journey, noting that it serves merely as an introduction to the principles of law and order.

He further noted that JPs serve as bridges between injustice and justice in every situation and are judged, not only by their words, but also by their actions.

“People need a sense of direction, people need hope and guidance, people need empathy and care; some are at their wits end, some are frustrated and angry. These are but some of the emotions that you will face as you go out there in the landscape. So my friends, you must always be cognisant of these things as we interface with persons in our respective communities, and seek to serve with compassion and fairness,” Custos Perrin underscored.

Speaking on behalf of the newly commissioned JPs, O’Brian Herron expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

He noted that the ceremony was not only a celebration of their appointments. but also a reaffirmation of their commitment to service, responsibility and community.

Mr. Herron also extended appreciation to the Justice Training Institute for its dedication to preparing Justices of the Peace for meaningful and effective service.

He further expressed gratitude to the Justice Ministry and the Westmoreland JP fraternity for their steadfast support throughout the process.