Today I was able to recognise the service of five long-serving JPs in a Community Recognition Statement tabled in the Parliament of New South Wales:



I wish to bring to the attention of the Parliament of New South Wales, and to recognise publicly, the exceptional contribution of five of my constituents in the service of their local communities.

Each of these men became a Justice of the Peace in 1969, and this year we celebrate their commitment of fifty years of service. They are a part of a cohort of two hundred and fifty JPs who mark fifty years of service this year.

Justices of the Peace provide a much needed service to our community helping people at key moments such as when they apply for a passport, buy a house or access superannuation.

I was delighted that Robert Noel Mahoney was able to join me here in Parliament to celebrate this milestone. I celebrate with the four other JPs who were unable to be present. They are:Earl Barnes from Mount Hutton, Ronald Robson from Warners Bay, Francis Sleishman from Charlestown, and John Walker from Gateshead.

There is no reward for serving as a Justice of the Peace, other than the pleasure of assisting others. On behalf of my local community I extend our gratitude to these JPs for their long and committed service.