JPs begin training ahead of new regulations

(CNS): The mandatory training programme for some 200 local Justices of the Peace (JPs) got underway recently to enable the people who hold the unremunerated position to get to grips with the new regulations governing the role. These new regulations will be formalized later this year and the office of the deputy governor had announced last year that JPS would face a more vigorous training regime regarding what is expected of them. The lack of understanding and the previously inadequate training of JPs was brought into sharp focus during a judicial review last year when a JP admitted that he had no idea about the relevant law in case where he signed a warrant for the arrest of local activist Sandra Catron.

The case caused significant controversy when the JP in question admitted that he had never refusing to sign a warrant in more than 20 years, had not asked for evidence, had not having sworn an oath and above all he said he did not understand the reasons for the warrant. The warrant was thrown out in the case which is still progressing against Catron.

Nevertheless, the case led to a review by the police of the use of JPs without any legal training and also prompted the deputy governor who is responsible for the ranks of justices of the peace to review the regulations and introduce the more robust training.

Speaking to the first group to undertake the session last week  Franz Manderson, the  deputy governor, who is also a JP reiterated the vital role in the administration of justice, good governance and upholding the reputation of the Cayman Islands.

The new regulations call for conducting a more updated and extended training programme to assist and streamline JPs’ work, especially in view of constitutional changes. The regulations also provide for update training every three years, Manderson explained. While the unpaid position of JP has a status, it is not just an honour but the role has serious duties and responsibilities which help to preserve the rule of law.

When the regulations come into force they will introduce a code of conduct for JPs that deals with the provision of services, conduct and integrity, as well as confidentiality. The document also covers the nomination and appointment of JPs, and sets out a requirement for training.
Local attorney Clyte Linwood is the trainer for all the sessions and module Module I of the training took place last Wednesday at the Seafarers’ Hall in Prospect for the first group and that will be followed up by Module tomorrow Wednesday (15 January 2014)

The two modules will be repeated on consecutive Wednesdays until 28 May, with the exception of Ash Wednesday on 5 March until all of the JPs have completed their training.

See new regulations below