The Office of the Public Defender (OPD) marked its 25th anniversary with the official opening of its new western regional office, located at Harbour City Mall in Montego Bay. 

The relocation ceremony on Tuesday (April 15) formed a key event in the OPD’s 25th Anniversary Roadshow, held under the theme ‘Empowering Citizens, Safeguarding Rights‘, and sets the stage for the official transition to the new accessible and modernised location, which will take effect on May 1.

Meanwhile, the OPD advised that its current office on St Claver’s Avenue continues to serve the public until the transition is complete, ensuring that citizens continue to have uninterrupted access to the office’s services during this period.

Strategically situated to improve access and visibility, the new office reinforces the OPD’s mission of bringing justice closer to citizens across western Jamaica. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Public Defender Carolyn Reid-Cameron and David Clarke, senior investigator of the Western Regional Office, symbolising a new chapter in citizen-centred service delivery.

“This move is more than a change of address. It is a bold step toward deepening access to justice for the people of western Jamaica,” said Reid-Cameron. “With this new and more accessible location, we hope to remove the physical barriers that too often stand between citizens and their rights. This space is designed to be welcoming, open, and fully equipped to serve with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism.”

Guests included representatives from the judiciary, government, civil society, and members of the wider Montego Bay community.

Following the formal ceremony, Reid-Cameron praised the dedication of the western regional team.

“You are the frontline of justice in these parishes. Continue to listen, continue to investigate, and continue to uplift. Every complaint we resolve, every voice we amplify, brings us closer to the Jamaica we envision—one where justice is not a privilege, but a promise.”

She also encouraged members of the public to make full use of the office: “This is your office. Use it. Reach out to us. Speak up. Know that the Public Defender’s door is always open, and we are here to serve.”