Justices of the Peace recognised for years of service
Wednesday, December 19 2007
Scottish Borders Justices of the Peace (JPs) have been recognised for the invaluable voluntary public service they have been providing over the years at a recent reception, hosted by Scottish Borders Council convener Alasdair Hutton
The title ‘Justice of the Peace’ has been in existence for more than 700 years and the work of JPs has, until now, consisted of two basic tasks; signing official papers presented by members of the public and sitting as judges in the District Court. Across the Borders, 20 JPs sit as judges in the four divisions of Scottish Borders District Court, and around 60 Justices have undertaken signing duties only.
As a result of the passing of the Criminal Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007, signing Justices ceased to hold office on Monday 10 December, their signing powers being passed to local authority councillors.
Retiring Justices have all received letters from the Justice Minister, Kenny MacAskill, acknowledging and paying tribute to their service, and the Council added thanks on behalf of the communities whom the JPs have served so well by holding the reception.
Special presentations were made to Sheila Brooks from Kelso who retired from the Jedburgh bench after 19 years as a JP and to Philip Murray, current chairman of the Scottish Borders Justices Committee and vice chairman of the national Scottish Justices Association.
The company were provided with first-class musical entertainment by Swing Loaded from Peebles High School.
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