JPs Urged to Protect Integrity of Office

Minister of Justice, Hon. Delroy Chuck, is imploring Justices of the Peace (JPs) to protect the integrity of the office, warning them against abuse of their authority by charging a fee for services rendered.

He also instructed JPs to refuse gifts offered, whether in cash or kind.

“Don’t go out and undermine the integrity of this vocation. I am urging you, if you see anyone doing it, to tell them to stop and if they don’t stop, please inform the Custos so that they can be decommissioned.

“It is a voluntary service; it is for our overall well-being. We are doing everything in our power to sensitise you, to inform you, to empower you so that you can provide service to our fellow citizens… . There is no basis for you to charge,” he said.

Minister Chuck was addressing a sensitisation session for Kingston JPs on Wednesday (September 25) at the AC Marriott Hotel.

The event formed part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the capacity of JPs and sensitise JP association executive members about the policies and procedures that will broaden their scope of service delivery.

Minister Chuck said that JP associations must play a more active role in bringing about positive change in society.

He noted that the members of these associations carry great influence and the bodies have an important role to play in community transformation.

“I urge them to sit and think in what small way they can assist to improve the quality of life of our communities and our country,” he said.

Mr. Chuck said that the Ministry continues to ensure that justice is at the forefront of governance across Jamaica.

“Our justice system is at the best place it has ever been in our history, but we have a far way to go to make it a first-class justice system. We are making strides but much more needs to be done,” he pointed out.