Custos Stair warns new JPs to steer clear of corruption
Published:Saturday | October 19, 2024 | 12:07 AMBryan Miller/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Hanover’s custos, Dr David Stair, has cautioned 23 newly sworn-in justices of the peace (JPs) that their role offers neither pay nor perks, urging them to resist corruption.
“There is no pay or perks involved; do not be tempted by those who might lead you astray or compromise your moral compass,” Dr Stair warned the new JPs, advising them to avoid individuals who might try to influence them improperly.
The swearing-in ceremony, chaired by Justice of the Peace and Deputy Mayor of Lucea Councillor Andria Dehaney-Grant, took place on Thursday at St Mary’s Anglican Church in the parish capital and was attended by family members and friends of the new JPs.
Custos Stair led the new JPs through their oaths of allegiance, a prerequisite for taking office. He emphasised the importance of integrity in fulfilling their duties to those they have volunteered to serve.
Dr Stair was clear that becoming a JP meant joining an exclusive group, and any involvement in corruption would result in removal from office.
“If you bring your office into disrepute by engaging in corruption, and it comes to my attention, you will no longer be part of this exclusive club,” he stated.
“You, as a JP, have made a decision to serve your community, not yourself. It is about providing a service to those who need your skills,” said Stair. “Your communities will see you as local resource persons, knowledgeable in almost every area.”
He urged the new JPs to “stay in your lane”, stressing that they need to understand their boundaries, as they are not police officers, judges, or clerks of the court. He encouraged them to continually review their roles and responsibilities and adhere to them.
“Do not take on tasks you are not qualified to handle. Please refer those matters to trained and qualified professionals,” he advised, urging the JPs to engage with their communities to build trust and familiarity.
“I encourage you to participate in community activities so that people get to know you, and you, in turn, know them,” said Stair. “You must carry yourselves with pride and dignity, as people will look to you for guidance and leadership.”
“Much will be expected of you, and you will be held to higher standards than others,” added the custos.
He also advised the new JPs that if, at any point, they find themselves unable to fulfil their responsibilities, they should feel free to return their commissions.
“It is better to do so than to lose your way and become part of the problem rather than part of the solution,” Dr Stair concluded.