St Catherine Gets 65 New Justices of the Peace – Minister Chuck Urges Integrity and Service

SPANISH TOWN, St Catherine – The parish of St Catherine now boasts 65 new Justices of the Peace (JPs), following a commissioning ceremony held on Tuesday, August 20, at the Lighthouse Assembly in Spanish Town. This latest cohort brings the parish’s JP count to over 1,700, strengthening the islandwide cadre of over 12,000 JPs who play a crucial role in the justice system and community service.

Minister of Justice Delroy Chuck, who delivered the keynote address, charged the newly commissioned JPs to carry out their duties with integrity, honesty, and compassion. He reminded them that their actions reflect not only on themselves but on the wider JP body.

“When you walk and people talk with you, they must feel good,” Minister Chuck told the gathering. “Live a life of truthfulness, of honesty, of decency, as lovingly as you can, caring for others around you.”

The minister disclosed that the number of JPs across Jamaica has doubled in the past decade—from approximately 6,000 to more than 12,000—thanks to an improved and expedited application and interview process. However, he emphasized that the role is a voluntary one, and applicants must demonstrate a willingness to serve their communities without expecting compensation.

“One of the things we have urged is that persons should indicate what sort of volunteer service they have been doing… Many of them feel that they should be paid, but the answer is no. This is a voluntary service,” Chuck stressed.

JPs are entrusted with key legal and civic responsibilities, including witnessing statutory declarations and affidavits, certifying documents, and attending Children’s and Drug Courts. They also visit correctional and care facilities and serve on the Licensing Authority for spirit licences. Some JPs also function within the Petty Sessions Courts, acting as critical links between the formal justice system and local communities.

Misconduct among JPs is treated seriously, with penalties ranging from formal warnings to fines of up to $500,000 or imprisonment for up to three years. Investigations into misconduct are typically initiated by the custos, who can recommend disciplinary action to the Minister of Justice.

The new appointees were encouraged to maintain the dignity and trust associated with their office and to make meaningful contributions to nation-building through service, honesty, and respect for the law.

New Justice of the Peace (JP), Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Howard Chambers (second right), receives his instruments of appointment from Minister of Justice, Hon. Delroy Chuck (second left), during a commissioning ceremony held on August 20 at the Lighthouse Assembly in Spanish Town, St. Catherine. Others pictured (from left) are Lecturer at the Justice Training Institute (JTI), Chamaele Golding, and Custos of St. Catherine, Hon. Icylin M. Golding. (JIS Photo)

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