Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Delroy Chuck, is urging Jamaica’s Justices of the Peace (JPs) to reclaim their historical role as peace ambassadors. Speaking during a virtual sensitisation session on Thursday, Chuck called on JPs to actively mediate disputes and promote harmony within their communities.
“You JPs, where you see arguments, conflicts developing, you need to urge the parties to seek help,” Chuck said, highlighting that many JPs focus too heavily on document certification instead of community engagement.
He reminded participants that the original function of JPs, established in England over 800 years ago, was to maintain peace and justice at the community level. The Justice Ministry’s ongoing sensitisation sessions aim to strengthen JPs’ capacity to deliver justice, encourage mediation, and help prevent domestic violence.
Chuck emphasized the availability of restorative justice and mediation programs across Jamaica, urging JPs to use these resources to assist in resolving conflicts.
The minister’s message underscores a growing government effort to promote community peacebuilding and reduce violent confrontations through early intervention and dialogue.