Ascension : Appointment of Justices of the Peace
Submitted by The Islander (Ascension Island Government) 11.11.2010 (Article Archived on 25.11.2010)
His Excellency the Governor wishes to consider appointing additional Justices of the Peace to sit in the Ascension Island Magistrates’ Court.
Appointment of Justices of the Peace
His Excellency the Governor wishes to consider appointing additional Justices of the Peace to sit in the Ascension Island Magistrates’ Court.
Under the Magistrates’ Court Ordinance, the Governor may appoint any person who appears to be suitable to perform the duties of the office, but section 90(4) of the Constitution requires him to act in accordance with the advice of the Judicial Service Commission. It is hoped that the Commission will be able to meet in early December to make recommendations to the Governor.
Expressions of interest are therefore invited from persons who wish to be considered for appointment. Public Officers should note that there is currently a legal prohibition upon appointing them to be Justices of the Peace, but discussions have begun about possible relaxation of this rule; Public Officers are therefore welcome to express interest at this time.
The main function of a Justice of the Peace is to participate in the sittings of the Magistrates’ Court. Justices also have a number of out-of-court functions in relation issuing summonses and warrants, and countersigning various formal documents. The office of JP is not salaried.
Further information can be obtained by speaking to any of the current Justices, or from the Clerk of the Court:
Marion Leo
Crown Counsels’ Office,
Georgetown
Tel: 6584
Email: marion.leo@ascension.gov.ac
Expressions of Interest should be submitted to the Clerk of the Court, in writing, to arrive by 4pm on Friday 12th November 2010. A form is available from the Clerk, and its use is encouraged, but letters will be accepted.
Marion Leo
Clerk of the Court
8th November 2010
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