Commit to Service above Self – DPP

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Paula Llewellyn, is calling on public servants to commit to service above self.

“We must be mindful of the communities we serve and that the public’s interest takes precedence over everything else,” she said.

Ms. Llewellyn was addressing the Trelawny Association of Lay Magistrates’ awards ceremony held recently, at the New Testament Church of God in Clark’s Town.

The DPP noted that public servants are always in the spotlight and they must ensure that their actions are above reproach.

“I am not saying that any of us are perfect,” she noted. “We, however, must understand that the paradigm has shifted where it now gives pre-eminence to due process, human rights, and transparency and accountability,” she pointed out.

Ms. Llewellyn said public service is a very noble profession and one cannot be “thin skinned” in carrying out their duty.

“One has to continue to show grace under fire. One has to be able to weather criticism…be cognisant that sometimes these criticisms can also be constructive,” she pointed out.

The DPP, in the meantime, charged the lay magistrates to carry out their duties with integrity and not allow themselves to be corrupted.

She contended that the best and most effective way to stamp out corruption “is for a person to always be willing to do the right thing.”

“You have to be able to cling to the arms of principle even when you are surrounded by storms and hurricanes. Always remember that your non-depreciating asset will always be your reputation. That is something nobody can take away from you unless you want them to,” she pointed out.

She noted that a lot of well respected persons in society have become shrinking violets because they have allowed themselves to be led astray. “I implore you to be one of those shining beacons. Do the right thing. Always remember that nobody is above the law,” she said.

During the awards ceremony, four retired lay magistrates from Trelawny were honoured for a combined 160 years of service.