The Attorney General has responded to calls by the Justices of the Peace Association for clarification on the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act.
In a media release, AG Reginald Armour says the purpose of the law is the removal of preliminary enquiries in the lower courts.
However, the association said the wording of the law led some members to believe that justices of the peace were no longer permitted to perform some functions.
The AG says the jurisdiction of Magistrates and by extension Justices of the Peace as it relates to the initiation of indictable matters has been removed.
He says the reduction of responsibilities for Justices of the Peace in indictable matters does not constitute a loss as they are not entitled to charge for their services beyond out-of-pocket expenses.
The AG adds that the role and functions of Justices of the Peace in summary matters continue.
Further, the Law Reform Commission has developed a “Justices of the Peace Bill” which prescribes the appointment, functions, duties and liabilities, and Code of Conduct for Justices of the Peace.
The AG says the Commission has sought the input of Justices of the Peace Association in the development of this legislation.