Friday, May 21, 2010

Three new JPs for Marlborough

t was standing room only yesterday as family and friends witnessed three of Marlborough's newest Justices of the Peace being sworn in at the Blenheim District Court.

James Cagney, Alistair Boyce and William Harris, took an oath before judge Tony Zohrab promising to faithfully serve the Queen.

Justices of the Peace are nominated by community groups and must be approved by the local MP before they can be sworn in.

Mr Harris, who has been involved with the Lions Club, Rotary Club and Hospice Marlborough, said he was "humbled and surprised" by his nomination.

"It's something I never thought about. I see it as an add-on to my service to the community."

He said he had been heavily involved in the community since leaving school.

Mr Harris plans to eventually take on the judicial duties of a JP.

In addressing the new JPs and the court, Judge Zohrab said the court system would not run as smoothly as it did without the involvement of JPs.

Mr Boyce, who is deputy principal of Queen Charlotte College, said he did not anticipate his new duties, which include certifying documents and witnessing signatures, would interfere with his teaching.

"I wouldn't be leaving my classroom for it. It won't take me away from my school work."

Marlborough Express general manager Roger Rose was presented with an award for his 25 years as the registrar for the Marlborough Justice of the Peace Association.

A JP since 1982, Mr Rose said he was "pretty proud" of the time he had spent as a registrar and said it was a "real honour and privilege" to be a JP.

Justices of the Peace hold their position for life unless they choose to resign.

By SIMON WONG - The Marlborough Express

Last updated 12:00 21/05/201

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