Businessman is Hanover’s new custos

Western Bureau:

Businessman Lennox Wayne Anderson-Jackson is now the new custos of Hanover. He was sworn into office last Friday by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen during a ceremony held at King’s House in St Andrew.

The 59-year-old Anderson-Jackson, a medical imaging practitioner and counselling psychologist, replaces the late Dr David Stair, who died on February 5. Stair had served in the position since March 5, 2009 until his death. He, too, was a medical professional.

The new custos is a native of Hanover and married to Yasmin Anderson-Jackson, the principal of Lucea Primary School, also in Hanover.

During the swearing-in ceremony, Sir Patrick said that after the death of Stair, who was a highly revered custos, a diligent search was done throughout the parish to find a suitable replacement.

“I am sure that if he (Stair) were to be participating in the selection of his successor, he would have undoubtedly recommended the same person who has been chosen,” said Sir Patrick, who congratulated Anderson-Jackson on his selection and wished him a successful tenure.

In his acceptance speech, Anderson-Jackson said he understood that acquiring the title of custos rotulorum for the parish of Hanover was an awesome responsibility, and promised to measure up to what is expected of him.

“It is a profound responsibility, and I promise to serve my parish with integrity, dedication, trust, honesty and passion,” he told the attendees, who included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang, Justice Minister Delroy Chuck, and justices of the peace from Hanover.

In acknowledging the 15 years of distinguished service given by Stair, Anderson-Jackson explained that he was aware of the rich history and significance of the office of custos, and gave his assurance that he would uphold the values and traditions he is taking on.

“Your Excellency, with steadfast determination, I will serve with dignity and purpose, ensuring that the parish of Hanover continues to strive,” he told Sir Patrick. “In the spirit of service, I pledge to listen intently, engage passionately, and act transparently.”

Chang, who once served in Hanover as a medical doctor and later as a member of parliament, told attendees that he was quite familiar with the family of the new custos and that he has know Anderson-Jackson for years.

In commending the new custos on his appointment, Chang said it was good to see that, after venturing outside of the parish for his professional training, he returned to Hanover to serve the people.

“[The office of custos] is a high office, it requires a level of commitment, and it takes time to settle in,” said Chang, who expressed confidence that Anderson-Jackson will serve with competence, distinction and integrity.

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