KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Delroy Chuck, is encouraging justices of the peace (JPs) to play a strengthened role in land administration and titling as the Government advances recovery efforts, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

The call was made during a virtual sensitisation session for JPs on Thursday.

Minister Chuck underscored the importance of the sessions, noting that “these sessions are a critical part of the ministry’s ongoing effort to build the capacity of our justices of the peace, to enhance your understanding of emerging legal and administrative issues, and to better equip you to carry out your duties with confidence, competence, and integrity”.

He explained that the focus on land administration and management is particularly timely, coming months after Hurricane Melissa caused widespread damage across several communities.

“As we reconstruct communities and restore livelihoods, clear and secure land ownership will be fundamental,” the minister said, adding that issues surrounding titles, boundaries, succession, and documentation are expected to become more pronounced during the rebuilding process.

Chuck noted that JPs are often the first point of contact for citizens seeking assistance with affidavits, statutory declarations, and the authentication of documents, placing them in a critical position to support land-related matters at the community level.

He said that through collaboration with agencies, such as the National Land Agency (NLA) and adherence to established procedures, JPs can help reduce delays, prevent fraud, and ensure vulnerable individuals are not excluded from recovery and development programmes due to documentation challenges.

Meanwhile, State Minister in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert, reiterated that land titling remains a key national priority.

“Ensuring that landowners obtain registered titles to their properties is a national priority of this Administration,” she said.

The state minister highlighted the broader benefits of secure ownership, noting that “secure land tenure not only provides families with peace of mind and legal protection, but it also unlocks opportunities for investment, access to credit, and intergenerational wealth”.

She noted that unresolved land disputes and fraud continue to threaten Jamaica’s land system and urged JPs to strengthen their knowledge of land titling, so they can better guide and educate the public.

The sensitisation session featured a presentation from the NLA, which provided practical guidance and best practices aimed at strengthening the capacity of JPs and expanding their scope of service delivery.

— JIS