KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Justice, Delroy Chuck, has called on Justices of the Peace (JPs) to maintain a high standard of integrity in the conduct of their duties.

Chuck was addressing the commissioning ceremony for 34 new JPs held at the Wembley Centre of Excellence in Hayes Clarendon, on Friday (October 28).

“Far too many JPs have set up shop and can be found at tax offices with their offices set up in their cars and they make it known that they will sign documents for a fee. It’s not worth it,” Chuck said.

“If you are going to be effective in your community, you must always think about how you can deliver justice and hopefully ensure that peace is brought within families, neighbourhoods and communities,” he added.

Chuck said he was aware of those JPs who abuse their post and whose sole aim is to receive a reward.

“If you see anyone doing wrong, be bold enough to tell them that the law prohibits it. You must be a beacon in your community and improve your quality of service,” he stated.

The Justice Minister informed that through his Ministry, JPs will receive ongoing sensitisation and training, which will better enable them to carry out their roles.

He urged the JPs to partner with the police in the fight against crime, while encouraging the use of alternative dispute resolution such as mediation, restorative justice, victim support, as a means of settling disagreements outside of the courtroom.

Meanwhile, newly commissioned Justice of the Peace, 33-year-old physician at the May Pen Hospital, Dr David Dwyer, said his inspiration to become a JP was born out of a natural urge to serve Jamaica.

“My godfather is also a Justice of the Peace and out of what he imparted and having had the privilege to become a doctor, I have the added zeal towards community outreach and bringing medicine to the community. So, becoming a JP is a step in the right direction to serve,” he said.

Originally from Westmoreland, Dr Dwyer said Clarendon is his adopted home where he has fostered new friendships, adding that there’s a role for him in the parish – especially among the youth.

“I have a soft spot for youth, especially young men. I see where there is a shortage of male role models and I hope one day to stand in the [gap] to impart knowledge or help in whatever way possible,” he stated.

A Justice of the Peace is a person of unquestionable integrity, who seeks to promote and protect the rights of individuals. JPs are constituted, empowered, and governed by the Justices of the Peace Act, 2018.