Dear Editor
THE three Neighbourhood Democratic Councils from Profit to Naarstigheid, spanning some 40 villages on the West Coast of Berbice, have been without the services of Justices of the Peace (JPs) and Commissioners of Oaths (CoOs) to affidavits for over seven years. Amongst the villages affected are: Eldorado, Belladrum, Weldaad, Seafield, Bushlot and Hopetown. I am aware that applications have been made to fill these vacancies, but to date, no one has been appointed.
The services of JPs and CoOs are sorely needed in our district. Those of us needing these services have to travel miles to obtain same. This is often costly and much to our discomfort. Signing and stamping of documents or obtaining affidavits can be a daunting endeavour on account of the absence of the services JPs and CoOs in our district.
It was hoped that with the advent of the new government there would have been some movement in this regard by now. But after two years, no one has been appointed to these offices in our district.
One can only hope that this missive can catch the attention of the Minister of State, the Honourable Joseph Harmon, whom it is understood, is responsible for such appointments and that some action would be taken to alleviate this situation.
Regards
H.W. Whinfield