There is general agreement that new Custos Rotulorum of St Ann Joseph “Joey” Issa will serve with distinction in the role he officially walked into on Thursday.

During an installation ceremony held at Seville Heritage Park in St Ann Governor General Sir Patrick Allen lauded Issa for his outstanding contributions to the Jamaican business community and his dedication to charitable causes throughout the island.

“As we now embark on this new chapter, it is with great pleasure that we welcome Mr Joseph Issa to his new role as custos rotulorum, with the support of his dear wife Mrs Asha Issa, beginning the 16th of September 2024. Mr Issa is a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist, advocate for cultural preservation, and a man of God. His extensive leadership experience and unwavering commitment to the well-being of others uniquely position him to guide St Ann into a new era of growth and progress,” said Allen.

“The role of custos is far more than a ceremonial title, it is a cornerstone of justice and governance, bridging State with the people and fostering collaboration between Members of Parliament, local communities, and law enforcement. The custos plays an essential role in recommending and swearing in justices of the peace (JPs), as well as upholding the value of civic responsibility, community pride, and the rule of law,” added Sir Patrick.

He noted that the role of custos rotulorum will be challenging, but said he is positive that Issa will do well.

Sir Patrick further urged Issa to exemplify the dedication of past custodes of the parish, Radcliffe and Norma Walters.

Radcliffe Walters was the custos from 1999 to 2013, while his wife Norma was installed in 2014 and served until earlier this year.

“The Walters duo embodied leadership defined by compassion and unity. Together they worked to enhance the social fabric of St Ann,” said the governor general.

“As Mr Issa assumes his esteemed office, we encourage him to lead with vision, diligence, and compassion. We trust that under his leadership the bonds that connect our Government and community will grow stronger and St Ann will continue to thrive as a beacon of unity and prosperity,” added Sir Patrick.

In the meantime, Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness said he has no doubt about Issa’s capabilities to carry out his duties.

“Joey is a visionary leader, a dedicated philanthropist and champion of innovation. His appointment as custos is a well-deserved recognition of his integrity, dedication, and tireless contribution to his parish and country. St Ann is fortunate to have a leader of your calibre to guide its people towards greater opportunity and prosperity,” said Holness.

“Joey has exemplified leadership through community service, from raising funds for under privileged students during his years as a student himself and promoting environmental initiatives, Joey has demonstrated a commitment to improving lives,” added Holness.

The prime minister also lauded former custos Norma Walters for what he said was her dedication to the parish.

“Mrs Walters served with distinction, dedicating herself to the people of St Ann with unwavering commitment. Norma, your tenure was a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose,” said Holness.

In his response, Issa said he intends to carry out his duties at the highest standards.

“My integral role in the justice system involving the appointment of justices of the peace is significant. In this regard I intend to vigorously uphold the appointment and supervision process so that there is no compromising on the good names of JPs and the justice system,” said Issa.

He said he has a vision for St Ann that will span four pillars: to expand the Ocho Rios and Reynolds ports, rejuvenation of the waterfront, upgrade of the Ocho Rios Food Market, and ensure the residents of St Ann have adequate infrastructure.

“This vision of an alluring St Ann has already begun, and short- to medium-term plans are afoot that would cement the parish as one of the most envied in Jamaica,” declared Issa.

“These short- to medium-term projects are not a pie in the sky but are in part already on the way to realisation — many plans are already prepared — and all of them are real and achievable,” he added.

The installation ceremony was attended by dignitaries, community leaders, and other residents who celebrated the new appointment and expressed their confidence in Issa’s ability to serve the people with distinction.

As custos of St Ann, Issa is expected to continue to uphold the values of service, leadership, and community involvement, fostering positive change and contributing to the ongoing development of the parish and the nation.

The custos rotulorum is the governor general’s representative in each parish and chairs the Parish Justices of the Peace Association and the Governor-General’s Achievement Awards Committee.

In addition, the custos is the chief magistrate of the parish and is responsible for compiling a roster of JPs, ensuring adequate numbers in each district and at every Petty Sessions Court sitting to carry out functions.

The custos also serves as chairman of the committee in each parish that recommends candidates for appointment as JPs to the minister of justice.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness (left), greets the new Custos Rotulorum for St Ann, Joseph “Joey” Issa, during the installation ceremony at the historic Seville Heritage Park in St Ann’s Bayon Thursday. Sharing the moment is Mr Issa’s wife, Asha. Photo: JIS

Governor-General, Sir Patrick Allen (left), speaks with new Custos Rotulorum for St Ann, Joseph Issa, during the installation ceremony held at the historic Seville Heritage Park in St Ann’s Bay on Thursday Photo: JIS