Justice Ministry Hosts Virtual Session to Update JPs on Passport Processes

The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, on Thursday (February 19), hosted a virtual sensitisation session to update Justices of the Peace (JPs) on their role in relation to the processes of the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA).

The session formed part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the capacity of JPs as justice sector personnel and to familiarise them with policies that will broaden their scope of service delivery.

In her remarks, Minister of State, Hon. Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert, underscored the critical role that JPs play in the passport application process.

“This area of sensitisation can never be overemphasised, as it directly impacts Jamaica’s border security or national identity and/or reputation, both regionally and internationally,” she said.

“I’m very pleased to see your continued commitment and keen interest in strengthening your knowledge and capacity as Justices of the Peace,” Mrs. Dalrymple-Philibert added.

The State Minister noted that with more than 11,500 JPs serving across Jamaica, they provide a credible and reliable gateway for citizens to access justice.

“I express our sincere appreciation to the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency for partnering with us in keeping our Justices of the Peace well-informed,” she said.

For his part, PICA’s Director of Citizenship Services, Miguel Cordwell, noted that the agency has long maintained a strong relationship with JPs, as the service they provide plays a critical role in safeguarding the integrity of Jamaica’s passport system.

“You also afford a satellite link with our citizens across the island. That is why we are pleased to share in sessions like these to equip you with the information and the requisite knowledge that you will need to ensure this is done,” he stated.

“The support that you offer for PICA is vital. As mentioned, you play a critical role in the system through the certification of documents. This is important to the nation’s security,” Mr. Cordwell added.

The Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency was established on June 1, 2007 as an Executive Agency, designed to be a self-financing, performance-based, and service-oriented institution.

PICA’s functions are integral to Jamaica’s border security system.

The Agency accepts and processes passport applications, manages the island’s immigration services, and oversees matters related to the application for and renunciation of Jamaican citizenship.