The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, the answers are as follows:

¶ 02 (a)(i) Yes. This post originated in the colonial period and, up to 2025, there was neither a system of training for Justices of the Peace (JPs) nor a proper procedure for their appointments. We have now established a formal procedure. Guidance relevant to their functions has been included in the handbook titled “Duties of Justices of the Peace”. In previous years, this handbook was issued by the Ministry of Justice at the time of appointments. Since 2025, it is available for download on the Ministry website and via a QR code provided in the appointment letter.

¶ 03 (a)(ii) Based on the data system maintained since 2013, it is not possible to disaggregate the total between Whole Island appointments and jurisdiction-specific appointments. From 2013 to date, 66,315 JPs have been appointed. As the data system had not been properly maintained, we are currently taking steps to regularize it.

¶ 04 (a)(iii) Based on the annexed methodology using population density and terrain by Grama Niladhari division and a 200:1 ratio, from 2025 we determined specific JP numbers per division. Accordingly, around 40,000 vacancies were identified. Issuance of 500–750 appointments per month commenced in June 2025.

¶ 05 [Annex placed in the Library.]

¶ 06 (a)(iv) To standardize and professionalize the JP service, from 2025 we introduced compulsory minimum qualifications:

¶ 07 - Educational qualifications: - Pass the GCE (O/L) Examination in one sitting with 6 subjects including Distinction/Merit in the mother tongue (Sinhala/Tamil) and at least one other subject. If authenticating a document prepared in English, English must be among the six passed subjects in addition to another subject. - For Whole Island JP appointments: completion of five years’ service as a jurisdictional JP and, educationally, at least one subject passed at GCE (A/L).

¶ 08 - Other qualifications: - Age 30 years or above and not more than 75 years at appointment; - Medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner confirming good physical and mental fitness; - No criminal charges and not convicted by a court.

¶ 09 To enhance public accountability, we have introduced a WhatsApp number and an email address to receive written complaints regarding JP conduct; complaints may also be sent by letter to the Ministry’s Reform Division. Complaints will be investigated and appropriate action taken.

¶ 10 (a)(v) Yes. From November 2025, formal training is provided to new appointees.

¶ 11 (a)(vi) Not applicable.

¶ 12 (b) Not applicable.