News and Press Releases
St James Parish Court Undergoing $43M Renovation
The Ministry of Justice is now spearheading renovation work at the St James Parish Court, to the tune of $43 million.
The scope of work includes tiling and painting, as well as plumbing and electrical installations. Additionally, a ramp will be erected to allow for wheelchair access for the elderly and infirm.
Kingston, Jamaica – The Ministry of Justice, through the Victims Services Division (VSD), is committed to offering emotional and psychological support to victims of crime especially during the trial process.
Minister of Justice Hon. Delroy Chuck had strong commendations for Jamaican Justices of the Peace for their continued volunteerism and dedication to nation building.
Speaking at the Justice Ministry’s JP Sensitisation Session at the Montego Bay Conference Centre on Friday, December 6, the Minister revealed that over 2,000 persons have been commissioned as JPs since 2017.
Photo Caption - Justice Minister Delroy Chuck greets US Ambassador Donald Tapia at Justices of the Peace Sensitization session for St. James. Also in attendance were (left) Executive Director NIA Professor Trevor Munroe and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice Sancia Bennett-Templar. The session was held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre on Friday December 6.
Justice Minister Urges Criminals to Give Evidence against Gang Members
KINGSTON, November 29, 2019
Date: Tuesday, November 19, 2019
Justice Minister, Delroy Chuck has saluted members of the staff of the Mandeville Courthouse who were dislocated due to the fire at the Mandeville Courthouse on Thursday, November 8.
The Minister noted that the staff were back at work the very next day following the fire, and despite the makeshifts arrangements under which they operated in its aftermath, they continued to graciously serve the public.
The St James Municipal Corporation has affirmed its commitment to supporting the Victim Services Division, an institution which the corporation says continues to demonstrate strong commitment to rehabilitating victims across the parish.
The endorsement was expressed by Councillor of the Montego Bay South Division, Richard Vernon, who attended Overcomers in Action, an initiative under the purview of the Ministry of Justice through the Victim Services Division.
The Ministry of Justice’s St. Ann Victim Services Division (VSD) is playing a key role in providing healing and support for victims of crime in the parish, particularly children.
Acting Manager, Bernita Black, told JIS News that the office assists up to 60 persons on a monthly basis.
Services include preparing clients for court, and helping them deal with the emotional trauma caused by crime through mediation and counselling.
“We also do crisis intervention where we provide on-the-scene response or home visits,” Ms. Black said.
