Dame Sandra Mason Emphasizes Integrity and Fairness in Address to Newly Appointed Justices of the Peace

Dame Sandra Mason reminded newly appointed JPs of the importance of their roles in upholding the integrity and fairness expected from such an office.

On the second day of ceremonies over which she presided, Dame Sandra congratulated the new appointees, urging them to reflect on their training and the significant responsibilities they are assuming.

She highlighted the core values of “integrity, discretion, fairness, and loyalty” as essential to their duties, reminding them: “You have evidently been chosen because the persons who chose you saw that you have integrity of character… Go forth and do your job as correctly as possible, remembering that you are all human beings and we have shortcomings.”

Among the newly sworn-in JPs was Maurice Gaskin, a long-time leader in sports, having served as a football captain and a cricket administrator, including a tenure as president of Empire Club.

Gaskin noted that his years of community service made him a natural fit for the position: “This is an extension to what I’ve been doing for years in terms of community work.”

Banker Tracy Gibbons expressed her pride at being appointed a JP, seeing it as a chance to further serve her community.

“I believe it’s a position that will allow me to serve a little bit more… It helps the younger generation as well, giving them another person to look up to,” she said.

Senior Financial Advisor at Sagicor Life, Patrick Estwick, acknowledged the importance of the JP role in his professional setting, particularly due to the frequent need for JP services at his workplace. Drawing from his experience as a former immigration officer, he highlighted the crucial role JPs play in legal procedures.

“It’s an honour and a privilege,” he said, adding that the training had broadened his understanding of the responsibilities involved.

Another appointee, Elmonda Depeiza, also a banker, expressed her enthusiasm: “It is an honour to become a Justice of the Peace, and I will serve with the honour it carries.”

(LG)