New JPs urged to let conscience be their guide
Published:Monday | August 1, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Gareth Davis, Gleaner Writer
PORT ANTONIO, Portland:
EIGHTEEN NEW Justices of the Peace (JPs) were sworn-in on Thursday by Custos of Portland Roy Thompson at a special function held at the Errol Flynn Marina.
Prior to the swear-in ceremony, the new JPs underwent six weeks of intense training under the guidance of retired Resident Magistrate (RM) Noel Irving, course facilitator of the Justice Training Institute.
Senior RM for the parish, Marjorie Moisten, commended the new JPs for offering to volunteer their service in the name of justice, which will see them becoming actively involved in stemming unrest in communities, and to adjudicate over petty session court matters.
The guest speaker, Robert Rainford, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Justice, urged the new JPs to remain committed to the oath of office, and to ensure that in all circumstances, justice is served to all parties.
"You have a special duty to perform. Let your conscience rule you and be guided by God Almighty in all your decision. You have taken an oath to uphold the law, and to split justice," said Rainford.
"You will now be able to settle domestic matters through dialogue and mediation in your community, and to sign authentic documents. Please be reminded that this is a voluntary service offered by you and should be carried out without any favouritism," he charged the JPs.
Commanding officer of the parish, Noel Christie, told the JPs to be confidential when executing their duties, especially when having to affix their seal to certain sensitive documents. He also cautioned them not to adjudicate in circumstances, where a conflict of interest may arise.
The new JPs commissioned into office are Marlon Allen, Margaret Anderson, Curtis Davis, Christine Downer, Beverly Dryden, Maxwell Hamilton, Carlton Harris, Barbara Harry, Desrene Henry, Rohan Lawson, Denise Lewis, Norton Lewis, Richard Maragh, Elizabeth Ormsby, Launett Pattison, Jeffery Waite, Gladys Williams, and Richard Williams.