LUCEA, Hanover — Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has reiterated the need to show respect to civic authority figures as a means of fostering an environment in which criminals are not able to thrive.

“The breakdown started when we said we’re not going to respect the JPs (justices of the peace), and then the children say we’re not going to respect the parents; we’re not going to respect the teachers. And once the link of respect is broken right throughout the society, then we create the space for criminals to emerge,” he stated.

Holness was addressing the installation ceremony for Custos Rotulorum of Hanover Lennox Wayne Anderson-Jackson at Anderson-Jackson’s alma mater Rusea’s High School in the parish on Thursday.

He urged Jamaicans to “rebuild this link of respect” to the custodes, through to the governor general, the prime minister, members of parliament and Government ministers.

“Let us close off the spaces in which criminal and antisocial behaviour thrives. Let us take back our society… this is what this installation ceremony is about,” added the prime minister.

His remarks came on the heels of police in the parish informing him that the support and work of justices of the peace (JPs) and other stakeholders had contributed to their success in curbing crime. Hanover is currently seeing a 71 per cent reduction in crime when compared to the same period last year.

“Our system of government has several layers to it. We tend only to focus on the layer through Parliament and the Cabinet. The judiciary is a part of the Government, the legislature, and the Cabinet, but also the functions of the State administered by his excellency the governor general and the persons who carry that authority through communities would be the custos and the justices of the peace,” Holness said.

“They don’t necessarily have the powers of law to compel, but what they have is the consensus of the society that their word, their character, their moral standing in the community carry weight, that people will voluntarily comply, that people will see them as persons holding office that they can emulate,” stated the prime minister.

According to him, there is no other force as powerful as that.

“Not even ministers who have the power of law, or even the police who have the power of the law. And therefore, though you may see this as ultimately ceremonial, there is power, real power, in the civic authority vested in the custos flowing from the authority of his excellency, the governor general, the head of the state of Jamaica. And so I want you to look at this role as a transformational role in your community,” stated Holness.

He said Anderson-Jackson’s leadership will be critical in galvanising the justices of the peace to be more present in their communities, whether through mentoring young men, guiding dispute resolution or supporting restorative justice initiatives. He added that the JP corps must be activated to serve not just ceremonially but transformatively.

“I also urge you to be an advocate for youth development. Our young people in Hanover must know that they are seen, heard, and believed in. Let us ensure they have safe spaces to thrive,” urged Holness.

“Hanover is writing a new chapter in its history, and I urge the citizens of this parish to follow the example and leadership of the custos and step up as JPs, volunteers, caregivers, coaches, mentors. When citizens take ownership of their communities, those communities become unbreakable,” the prime minister added.

Anderson-Jackson’s installation follows the sudden death of Dr David Stair who served as custos from September 2007 to February 2025.

“Sixteen years of service were marked by wisdom, integrity and a deep love for the parish. His efforts to organise and strengthen the role of justices of the peace have left an enduring legacy. He brought order to a system that now stands as a model for others, equipping Hanover’s JPs to serve their communities with humility, purpose and professionalism. We are deeply grateful for his tireless contribution,” Governor General Patrick Allen said of Dr Stair.

Anderson-Jackson is now the official representative of the governor general and leads approximately 250 justices of the peace in the parish.

“This appointment is not a surprise to those who know him well. It is the natural step, the next step in a life shaped by hard work, humility and a deep commitment to the people of Hanover. Born and raised in this parish, Custos Anderson-Jackson has never strayed from his roots. He has given back to Hanover in ways both quiet and profound. One of his early contributions was the establishment of the first ultrasound facility in the parish, a milestone in improving access to health care,” stated Sir Patrick.

“His heart for service extends beyond health care. He has been a mentor and guide to the youth, whether through National Youth Service, supporting students in primary schools or coaching the Rusea’s High School Schools’ Challenge Quiz team. He understands that when we invest in our young people, we build a stronger future,” added Sir Patrick as he urged the entire parish to give the newly installed custos their full support.

For his part, Anderson-Jackson pledged continued support to the Governor General’s Achievement Award — which recognises and celebrates outstanding service and excellence in communities — and the ‘I believe Initiative’ — which uplifts and empowers young people.

“These initiatives are powerful tools for engagement, fostering national pride and driving transformation, and I am committed to ensuring their ongoing impact across our parish,” he assured.

“To my esteemed justices of the peace, I see you not only as colleagues but as front-line ambassadors of justice, peace, and service. Together, we will deepen our impact across the parish, ensuring we are accessible, approachable, and always guided by the principle of acting in the best interest of the people we serve, to strengthen our capacity. I am committed to encouraging continuous professional development and support. This includes targeted training in essential areas, such as the spirit licence process, drug court procedures, children’s court operations, lay magistrate responsibilities, sign language, communication, restorative justice programme, and refresher courses for justices of the peace. Through this initiative, we will enhance our competence and ensure we become responsive to the evolving needs of our society. Mentorship and peer support will also be key pillars of our approach,” stated Anderson-Jackson.

He stressed that every experienced JP has a duty to guide the next by fostering a culture of learning and ethical excellence by uplifting each other. Anderson-Jackson also assured the people of Hanover that he is there to serve them.

“My office will be one of fairness and action. I will be present in the communities, listening to your concerns, working alongside you and advocating for what is right. I believe Hanover has what it takes to make a significant contribution to this country. We are a parish of resilience, talent and untapped potential. I intend to harness that energy and work with all stakeholders, public and private, to bring real, tangible progress to our people,” he promised.