A record number of Justices of Peace were sworn in yesterday at the Grand Pacific Hotel.

They included a growing number from rural and maritime areas as part of the continuing Government efforts to bring services to the people there.

120 JPs and 16 Commissioners of Oath swore to fulfil their role with integrity and honesty.

Chief Justice, Anthony Gates reminded the JPs and Commissioners of Oath that they held positions which were appointments by the British Monarch.

The history of JP appointments go back as far as 1327 in England, he told them.

This was when lord chancellors were the most senior of a King’s advisor and made appointments on behalf of the King.

And the induction was still revered in this day and age.

Justice Gates said: “No doubt you will have been told that you may not charge fees for your work, nor may you wrap up the JP’s or Commissioner’s work with other work for which you might properly make charge.

“If you do, members of the public are bound to complain, this will cause an inquiry to be commenced, if the allegation is found to be true, it may lead to the cancellation of your appointment.

“So no charging please and no back door charging,” Justice Gates said.

He reminded them that they needed to keep a reputation for being selfless, accommodating, ready to help, obliging and willing to assist.

“It’s not about putting JP after your name or on your letter head.

“Being a JP or a Commissioner is about giving service to the people of Fiji,” he stressed.

Chief Justice, Anthony Gates

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