Newly sworn-in commissioners of oath and justices of peace have been urged to perform their duties with utmost honesty, sincerity and integrity because they play a vital role in the justice system.
This morning seventeen (17) new commissioners of oath and (11) eleven justices of peace were sworn-in at the Suva High Court by Chief Justice, Anthony Gates.
Justice Gates reminded the officers that they have been appointed to serve the public and not to make profit.
“You come forward in order to serve the public. This is not a business venture. You are not out to make a sideline profit. Be careful not to wrap up other office facilities or services for which you may rightly charge, with your services as a JP or a Commissioner,” Justice Gates said.
“You must make yourself available and not have staff or family members chasing applicants away. Your willingness to assist, to be available, will soon be noted, and again complaints will come in if you are grumpy and unhelpful.”
Justice Gates highlighted the need for the Commissioners and JPS to maintain records of the works they carry out.
“From time to time, this record may be called for and inspected. I understand it will not be long before you will be issued with standard uniform stamps for use with your documentation. Commissioners, as already with JPs, will have photographic ID cards,” Justice Gates added.
The Commissioners, like the JPs, would also be issued with a General Guidelines Booklet to refer to when necessary. These booklets would also remind them of the high standard of conduct expected of them.
“It is like being a member of a famous regiment with many battle honours to its name, and with a reputation for steadfastness and noble deeds,” stressed Justice Gates.
There are altogether 307 JPs around the country now.
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