'I will listen to the voice of the people' Parchment Brown

New Custos Rotulorum of St Andrew Donna Parchment Brown has pledged to increase the number of justices of the peace (JPs) serving the parish in order to effectively meet the needs of all citizens.

With more than 1,300 JPs currently serving, she said they "have an awesome opportunity to be a force for good as we connect with all the other good in St Andrew".

Parchment Brown was delivering her inaugural address, following her installation by Governor General Patrick Allen, on Thursday, at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium at Jamaica College.

The new custos, who replaces Marigold Harding, vowed to listen to the voices of the JPs and the people of St Andrew.

"I intend to carry out the duties set out with diligence and dignity. I will use tools of affirmation, communication, and cooperation rooted in respect," she promised.

Parchment Brown further pledged to execute her tasks in an ethical and professional manner and to approach her functions with the utmost humility and gratitude.

"I look forward to working with the members of parliament, councillors, civil society, the private sector, and all the duty bearers and volunteers who serve this great parish," she said.

Allen lauded Parchment Brown, noting that her appointment is a testament to "our confidence in her ability to serve effectively in this position in the most populous parish in our country".

"I expect that citizens of St Andrew will benefit significantly from her collaboration with her cadre of 1,300 JPs, civil society, and the security forces," he said.

- JIS