NicholsonTHE ATTORNEY-General and Minister of Justice, the Hon. A.J. Nicholson, has given the assurance that the Justice Ministry and the Ministry of National Security will be speaking in the same tone on matters to do with morality and public order, as well as the growing threat of terrorism in Jamaica, "despite the philosophical divide" between both Ministries.
Speaking at a special meeting last Tuesday, December 11 at the Bloomfield Great House, in Mandeville, Minister Nicholson said that it is full time that the nation, and especially those in positions of leadership, discontinue the practice of disregarding national institutions. And, he added, it was equally important that the police force understands that the abuse of authority by some misguided members, will not lend support to the requirement that they be supported in the fight against crime and violence.
Minister Nicholson also told the audience that the proposed Charter of Rights (Constitutional Amendment) Bill, was a "major overhaul" of Chapter three
Jamaican Constitution, and sought to give further clarity and credence to the fundamental rights and freedoms of Jamaicans. The Bill, produced by the Joint Select Committee, was tabled in the house that day, he added, and the country should expect debate on the proposals to begin in early January 2002.
The Justice Minister was addressing Resident Magistrates from the Manchester Courts, lawyers from the private bar, Lay Magistrates, as well as representatives from the local business community, following a tour of the Spanish Town, May Pen and Mandeville Courts. He was accompanied by Permanent Secretary in the Justice Ministry, Elaine Baker, and other senior representatives from the Ministry.
The series of court tours is being organised to allow Minister Nicholson to meet the Resident Magistrates and court administration staff, as well as to hear their concerns with a view to implementing effective changes. An assessment of the state of court buildings to determine the level of repairs necessary, in the near term, is also of top priority.
