A call to raise the issue of the welfare of Jamaica’s parliamentarians

Recently developments involving misconduct by justices of the peace (JPs) have highlighted the urgent need to pay attention to the welfare of those who fulfill this crucial role.

As my case study I will use a report from January 12, 2024 in the Jamaica star about a JP who pleaded guilty to making false statements by signing passport applications for people he did not know and accepting payment for his signature. The JP allegedly said, “Officer, I know it’s not right, but I’ve been through some tough times and I took the opportunity to make some money.”

This incident highlights a broader problem: the financial vulnerabilities faced by many JPs in Jamaica. While the actions of the JP in question are indefensible, his situation raises serious concerns about the support systems available to those committed to public service.

As a JP, I recognize the critical importance of maintaining truth and integrity, especially during difficult times. However, empathy forces me to recognize that financial setbacks can drive even the most sincere individuals to desperate measures.

My family has a long history of public service in Jamaica, Guyana and the wider Caribbean, and I have always been deeply committed to volunteering and serving my community and region. However, there have been times when financial constraints have forced me to scale back my involvement in providing services.

It is in this context that I write to argue for a much-needed discussion about the welfare and conservation of JPs. The role of a JP is often demanding and requires time, resources and a strong moral compass; However, unlike other civil servants, JPs do not receive any allowance or financial compensation for their work. This lack of support can lead to economic stress, especially for those who are retired, unemployed, or otherwise financially vulnerable.

One of the main challenges that JPs face is the accumulation of various expenses related to their duties. These expenses can become a burden, especially for JPs with limited income. As members of the workforce, JPs are not immune to shifts in the labor market, such as pay cuts or unemployment, and the lack of a financial safety net can make it difficult to continue their employment.

There are countless stories of JPs who have struggled to maintain their ethical standards in the face of financial difficulties. The above incident, reported in the Jamaica star is not an isolated case; it points to a broader problem that requires urgent attention.

As Members of Parliament we must (at all times) remain morally upright in the discharge of our duties, but we must also recognize that we are human and susceptible to the pressures of economic hardship.

To address these issues, I propose the creation of a working group composed of representatives from the Ministry of Justice and the custodians of each parish. This group would be tasked with exploring the feasibility of providing a stipend, travel allowance and health insurance for JPs. These benefits are already available to other officers and employees within the Ministry, and it is time to consider extending them to JPs by redefining our “working relationship” within the Ministry.

While some JPs may choose not to accept these benefits, those who do should be required to demonstrate their active involvement in the performance of their duties. As with any public service role, mechanisms must be in place to evaluate performance and ensure accountability. This may include tracking caseload data, monitoring community engagement, and gathering feedback from colleagues and community members.

Providing a stipend and allowances for JPs would address a number of key issues:

1) Reducing financial vulnerability: Compensation would alleviate financial pressure on JPs, reducing the temptation to accept illegal payments or engage in unethical behavior.

2) Restoring Public Trust: In light of recent incidents that have eroded public trust, fair compensation would demonstrate a commitment to transparency and ethical conduct.

3) Increasing professionalism: Recognizing the valuable contributions of JPs through financial support would increase the perception of the role and attract even more qualified individuals to the role.

4) Improving the effectiveness of the system: Financial support would allow parliamentarians to focus on their duties without being distracted by financial concerns, leading to better decision-making and better results.

5) Encouraging active participation: Linking stipend levels to performance and years of active service would motivate JPs to strive for excellence and make meaningful contributions to the justice system.

In addition to providing financial support, the working group should also consider introducing a transparent and fair assessment process to evaluate the performance of parliamentarians. This could include using an electronic case management system to track activities, requiring JPs to regularly report on their workload and performance, and establishing a peer review system to provide constructive feedback.

To ensure the effectiveness of these measures, it is essential to integrate technology into the assessment process. Automated data collection, streamlined reporting and improved communication between MPs and the assessment body would promote transparency and fairness.

Addressing the welfare of MPs is not just about providing financial support; it’s about recognizing the value of the role and ensuring that those who serve in it are equipped to do so with integrity and professionalism. By providing a stipend, allowances and health insurance, we can reduce the financial vulnerabilities faced by many MPs and restore public confidence in the office of Justice of the Peace.

I urge the Department of Justice to take immediate action and convene a working group to examine these proposals.

As parliamentarians, we are committed to serving our communities, but we need the support to do this effectively. The recommendations here should not be seen or construed as a one-size-fits-all magic solution, but are given to drive a multi-stakeholder approach to improving the quality of life and work of our MPs.

Nicholas McDavid, JP

Saint Andrew

[email protected]