CHAIR of the St Andrew Justice of the Peace Association (SAJPA) Norris Rhoomes, in rebuffing suggestions that corrupt acts by some justices of the peace (JPs) are indicative of the need for support systems for the cohort, says while no formal welfare system exists, there are mechanisms in place to help needy JPs.

That assurance comes after concerns raised by St Andrew Justice of the Peace Nicholas McDavid last month. McDavid, in a letter to the editor of the Jamaica Observer, in pointing to a recent court case where a JP facing corruption charges claimed that financial difficulties led to him charging for his services, had said “while the actions of the JP in question are indefensible, his situation raises significant concerns about the support systems available to those who dedicate themselves to public service”. He went on to “advocate for a much-needed discussion on the welfare and upkeep of JPs”, stating that “the role of a JP is often demanding, requiring time, resources, and a strong moral compass”, while noting that they, “unlike other public servants, do not receive a stipend or financial compensation for their work”.

“This lack of support can lead to economic strain, particularly for those who are retired, unemployed, or otherwise financially vulnerable,” McDavid contended before going on to suggest “the establishment of a working group comprising representatives from the Ministry of Justice and custodes of each parish”. This group, he said, would be tasked with exploring the feasibility of providing a stipend, travelling allowance, and health insurance for JPs.

Rhoomes, responding to those suggestions through a letter to the Observer, commended McDavid “for bringing attention to this issue” but said while he shared the concern for “those JPs who may be experiencing hardship…regardless of personal financial circumstances, JPs must never compromise their role by soliciting or accepting payment for services, as this would erode the public trust essential to our mission”.

According to Rhoomes, the SAJPA and other associations have a welfare committee dedicated to providing support for JPs in need. “While no formal framework currently exists for JP health insurance or allowances, each association strives to respect and assist its members, reinforcing a community of care and accountability,” Rhoomes maintained.

“I encourage St Andrew JPs to connect with the SAJPA, identifying colleagues who may need support and volunteering their own time to strengthen our shared commitment to service. Together, we can ensure that every JP serves with integrity, in keeping with our commitment to justice,” the chair of the SAJPA said further.

The issue of JPs collecting for their services has been a topic of discussion on numerous occasions. In September this year, Justice Minister Delroy Chuck again issued a stern warning to JPs against getting involved in the corruption, which he said extended to the outside of tax offices across the island.

“We are going to decommission those [JPs] who we know charge for their services, for bringing the vocation [of JP] into disrepute. If you find out that you cannot do the voluntary service, give up the seal,” Chuck, who was addressing the third in a series of sensitisation sessions put on by the Ministry of Justice, at the Grand Palladium Resorts in Hanover, said.

“It is within the Act that no JP should charge for their services, and I know that JPs are charging,” Chuck stated, while urging JPs to refuse monetary offers made to them to carry out their duties.

In May this year, while addressing more than 100 newly minted judicial officers, Chuck said, “I beg all of you from here on: Try to live a life of honesty — even if you weren’t before. For God’s sake, I beg of you, turn over a new leaf if necessary because I see far too many people, justices of the peace who I know, because people complain about these JPs, how they behave, and how they collect money. I beg you, even if you intend to, don’t do it because we are going to decommission you if we find out — and I know it is happening across Jamaica”.

— Alicia Dunkley-Willis