National Identification System to reduce the role of JPs
Justices of the Peace (JPs) will no longer be required to authenticate someone’s identity as the National Identification System (NIDS), to be introduced later this year will make this unnecessary. One of the primary functions of a JP is to sign documents to validate a person’s identity.
The National Identification System cards will be uniquely designed to record someone’s identity by electronically storing biometric data from an individual like their fingerprints and other personal data that is unique to them. All this data will be stored in a National database where Prime Minister Andrew Holness says it would be safe. Programme Director for NIDS, Dr Warren Vernon says the system will be ready in four months but, for now enrolment sites are being set up in the Kingston area and technical experts are being hired.
Minister without portfolio Floyd Green says, “the National Identification Card will replace the need for a JP to verify one’s identity”. It is the duty of the JP to know people in their communities but there are not enough JPs to adequately service the population of Jamaica and many people are unable to access this service. Jamaicans can now breathe a sigh of relief as they will no longer have the hassle to prove their identity.
A JP from Clarendon said, “we don’t know yet how it will affect us; we haven’t gotten any lecture or any information on the effectiveness of NIDS”. The JP further pointed to the fact that once the NIDS card are issued it will replace the national identification card as this NIDS card will have all our information.
The JP continued, “NIDS is going to be so good that nobody will have to doubt that you are the person”. He pointed out that JPs will not be out of a job as they have other responsibilities such as serving in the Petty Sessions Court where they handle minor cases such as dispute resolutions. They also sit in on interrogations with the police officer for people who cannot afford a lawyer to make sure the officer records the interview accurately.
Justices of the peace are also tasked with the responsibility of working with Child Abuse cases and mediation. Whenever there is an argument over who should own land or the branches of a tree hanging over the neighbour’s yard, the JP can step in to mediate or find better options so both parties can live in peace.
