Custos wants Hanover’s two JP bodies to bury hatchet
Published:Sunday | May 4, 2025 | 12:07 AMBryan Miller - Sunday Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Newly appointed Custos of Hanover, Lennox Anderson-Jackson, is urging unity between the parish’s two Justice of the Peace (JP) organisations – the Hanover Justices of the Peace Association (HJPA) and the Lay Magistrates Association of Jamaica (LMAJ) – which have been operating as separate entities.
Anderson-Jackson, who assumed the role following the recent passing of former Custos Dr David Stair, is determined to end the long-standing divide. He is calling on both groups to put aside their differences and collaborate for the greater good of the parish.
During Stair’s tenure, the relationship between the Custos and the LMAJ was strained, with the LMAJ resisting his authority. The conflict escalated to the point of involving the Office of the Governor General’ and the Ministry of Justice. Justice Minister Delroy Chuck later affirmed that the HJPA is the officially recognised body, though he noted that the LMAJ could operate as an affiliate – not an independent entity.
Tensions reportedly stem from the LMAJ’s desire for special recognition, arguing that lay magistrates deserve seniority over other JPs who do not perform those duties.
At his first official meeting with JPs since taking office, Anderson-Jackson revealed that he has already begun discussions with the LMAJ to forge unity between the two bodies.
“Unity is how we can all make a difference in our own parish, how we can make our parish shine,” said Anderson-Jackson. “Let us engage in open conversation, share wisdom and concerns, and align our efforts for the greater good of Hanover.
“The truth is, we (as Justices of the peace) should uphold certain standards, so we have to set the standards,” he emphasised, encouraging all to participate in meetings and training hosted by the Ministry of Justice.