Businessman and philanthropist, Joseph Issa, is the new Custos Rotulorum for the parish of St Ann.

Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen presented Issa with the Instrument of Office during a swearing-in ceremony held at King’s House on Monday (September 16).

The Governor-General congratulated Issa on his appointment.

“His contribution to business and also to community service are very well known, and I wish him the best as he takes on this respected role,” he said.

The Governor-General informed that the installation and presentation of the new Custos to the parish will take place in a few weeks.

“At that time, the Justices of the Peace [JPs] will commit to supporting him in conducting the affairs of the parish,” he said.

In his response, Issa, who described himself as a “made in Jamaica product of St Ann,” said he has a deep love for the parish, where he has lived for almost 35 years.

He noted that St Ann has influenced many of his business and philanthropic ventures and is the backdrop of several significant milestones in his life.

“I have always been one to look ahead, making tomorrow better than today, but since I was asked and now appointed as Custos, I have had the chance to look back and realise how inspired I was by just about every aspect of St Ann, and this is manifesting today,” he said.

Issa replaces Norma Walters, who succeeded her husband, Radcliffe Walters, in the post in 2014.

The Governor-General expressed his gratitude for the service rendered by the outgoing Custos.

“We [would like to] express our appreciation to you for the outstanding work you have done in the parish of St Ann. You have lived there for many years, and you have contributed your services to the development of St. Ann,” he said.

The primary role of the Custos is to represent the Governor-General as the first citizen of the parish.

Among the core functions of the Custos is engaging in activities that promote the rule of law, public order, and civic pride.