The Office of the Public Defender (OPD) remains pivotal in safeguarding the constitutional rights of Jamaicans. The OPD’s genesis dates back to the 1970s when Jamaica’s first Ombudsman was appointed, with a focus on remedying maladministration. Former Public Defender, Earl Witter, emphasised the institution’s importance in upholding democracy and protecting fundamental rights. “The remit of that Ombudsman was exclusively to...

Jamaicans are being encouraged to know their constitutional and human rights and to make use of the services provided by the Office of the Public Defender (OPD) to safeguard those rights. Public Defender, Carolyn Reid-Cameron, made the call while addressing a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank on Friday (April 4). She said that many persons are not aware of...

Sixteen Justices of the Peace (JPs) from Portland, Clarendon and St. Ann graduated from the Justice Training Institute (JTI), on Thursday (March 27). The JPs received specialised training between October and December 2024, to serve in the Lay Magistrates’ Court. Training administered by retired Senior Parish Judge, Hon. Marjorie Moyston, was focused on judicial principles and conduct, courtroom protocol and...

Justices of the Peace (JPs) are being urged to strengthen their collaboration with law-enforcement agencies to aid in crime prevention and the delivery of justice. “I want at least 10 Justices of the Peace to be attached to each police station. Your role is vital in ensuring justice is properly served,” says Justice Minister, Hon. Delroy Chuck. This, he pointed...

Justices of the Peace (JPs) are being encouraged to embrace their role as beacons of integrity within their communities. This urging comes from Justice Minister, Hon. Delroy Chuck, who was speaking during a recent commissioning ceremony for newly minted JPs in Clarendon. He emphasised the critical responsibilities of JPs in upholding justice and fostering peace in the society. “We must...

Minister of Justice, Hon. Delroy Chuck, says $1.1 billion has been paid, so far, in judgement debt for the 2024/25 fiscal year. He was addressing the meeting of the Standing Finance Committee in Gordon House on Thursday (March 6). “We have another $300 million, so... we can satisfy all the judgment debt. We are extremely happy with the fact that...

The Ministry of Justice spent approximately $350 million towards the provision of alternative justice services in the 2024/25 fiscal year. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Delroy Chuck, made the disclosure during the meeting of the Standing Finance Committee at Gordon House on Thursday (March 6). Mr. Chuck said focus was placed on mediation, restorative justice, child diversion and justice tours. “We did...