MINISTER of Justice Delroy Chuck has reiterated his stance that justices of the peace (JPs) should not be paid for their services.

“I know that JPs have been called upon to do so many things and you have some outstanding, proactive, dedicated, willing JPs who really go beyond the call of duty…So that across the island now JPs have been saying should be paid for their service, the truth of the matter JPs, the answer is no,” declared Chuck as he addressed a JPs’ sensitisation session in Port Maria, St Mary, on Thursday.

“JPs are outstanding citizens in their communities, people who are seen by the general public as people that they can rely on, people that they can go to. It is a position of trust…it is position that makes you stand out in your community.

“The last thing that you would want to do is when people come to you, you say $5,000, and those JPs who are charging, I say stop it. In all sincerity, your integrity is worth more than $2,000 and $5,000. It must be done voluntarily [and] your reward is that you feel good that you are helping another Jamaican,” added Chuck.

The often raised issues of payment for JPs was put back on the front burner last month when St Andrew JP Nicholas McDavid, in a letter to the editor of the Jamaica Observer, pointed to a recent court case where a JP facing corruption charges claimed that financial difficulties led to him charging for his services.

According to McDavid, while the actions of the JP in question were indefensible, his situation raises significant concerns about the support systems available to those who dedicate themselves to public service.

He advocated for a much-needed discussion on the welfare and upkeep of JPs and argued that the role of a JP is often demanding, requiring time, resources, and a strong moral compass while, unlike other public servants, they 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 of the Ministry of Justice and custodes of each parish to consider the matter.

But in a response, also to the editor of the Observer, head of the St Andrew Justice of the Peace Association (SAJPA) Norris Rhoomes declared that JPs must never compromise their role by soliciting or accepting payment for services, as this would erode the public trust essential to their mission.

Chuck had previously warned that JPs caught charging for their services would be decommissioned.

“If you find out that you cannot do the voluntary service, give up the seal,” Chuck said during a sensitisation session in Hanover.