Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Delroy Chuck, is calling on Jamaica’s Justices of the Peace (JPs) to embrace their roles as peace ambassadors and community mediators. Speaking during a virtual sensitisation session, he emphasized the importance of conflict resolution and urged JPs to actively help reduce violence across the island.
Key Details
During the online meeting, Minister Chuck outlined that Jamaica’s JPs must go beyond their traditional administrative duties of authenticating documents and providing identification assistance. Instead, he encouraged them to intervene where they see signs of conflict, helping to defuse tensions before they escalate into violence.
“You JPs, where you see arguments, conflicts developing, you need to urge the parties to seek help,” Chuck advised. He also highlighted the role of restorative justice and mediation programs, noting that facilitators are available across the country to help communities resolve disputes peacefully.
Chuck expressed concern that too many JPs see their work as purely procedural. He called for a renewed focus on the original intent of the role, explaining that the position’s historical roots were centered on promoting peace and justice within communities.
Background
The Justice of the Peace (JP) system in Jamaica has existed since colonial times, modeled after the English framework established over 800 years ago. Historically, JPs were responsible for maintaining law, order, and peace within their parishes.
Minister Chuck noted that this original purpose has been overshadowed by administrative functions, and he emphasized the need to restore that tradition. The Ministry of Justice continues to modernize and expand JP training through sensitisation sessions, aiming to equip them with tools to manage community conflicts and support the national peace-building strategy.
Quotes
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“You JPs, where you see arguments, conflicts developing, you need to urge the parties to seek help.” — Delroy Chuck, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
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“I’m now going to ask every single Justice of the Peace to please be an ambassador of peace.” — Delroy Chuck
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“They were not only the advocates but the persons in England who brought peace within various municipalities and neighbourhoods — that’s the role we must now reactivate in Jamaica.” — Delroy Chuck
Analysis
Chuck’s message reflects a broader government push toward community-based justice. With rising incidents of domestic and interpersonal violence, empowering JPs to mediate disputes may offer an effective grassroots solution. The Justice Ministry’s continued emphasis on restorative justice also aligns with its goal to reduce reliance on the courts for minor conflicts, promoting reconciliation instead of punishment.
If JPs take on this proactive role, they could become a crucial link between formal justice systems and the public, helping to prevent violence and build stronger, more peaceful communities.
Our Opinion
Minister Chuck’s appeal is a timely reminder of the important role JPs can play beyond paperwork. Community-based justice must be driven by empathy, trust, and presence — qualities that JPs, as respected local figures, are uniquely positioned to provide. Reintroducing the peacekeeping aspect of their mandate could significantly strengthen Jamaica’s social fabric and contribute to national stability.
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