New custos commits to St Elizabeth’s post-Melissa recovery

BUSINESSMAN Bernard Henry has vowed to build on the work of predecessors as he moves into the role of custos rotulorum for St Elizabeth. Henry received his Instrument of Appointment from Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, after taking the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Office during a ceremony at King’s House on Thursday. He replaces Beryl Rochester who served 12 years as custos rotulorum for the parish. “This is a humbling office; I’m very fortunate. We have had an acting custos who was tremendous so we want to make sure that we work to continue to build on what our former custos, Honourable Beryl Rochester, put in place, and the custodes before, and also what Acting Custos Stevon Sheriffe… did. So my role is really for us to build from there,” Henry told the Jamaica Observer following the ceremony.

New custos rotulorum for St Elizabeth Bernard Henry (left) receiving his Instrument of Appointment from Governor General Sir Patrick Allen at King’s House on Thursday.

According to Henry, the role is even more significant following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa last year. “To be able to step into this role at this time, when we are in the process of rebuilding our parish, is significant. And so we want to make sure that we operate with humility, that we are there to help, to add value, and to rebuild St Elizabeth. “We are a very proud parish and we are a resilient people. We want to show off who we are and what we do, and we want to make sure that the people who are hurting, we are there to lift them up — especially the youth,” Henry added. The Category 5 storm, which hit Jamaica on October 28, 2025, left many residents of St Elizabeth scrambling to rebuild their lives, but Henry remains optimistic about the future of the parish. “I’m hoping that we will get the support that we need to rebuild even better than what we had before. I see the devastation but I’m also looking for the silver lining, and the silver lining is that we will be able to build back even better. That’s what I see. That’s what I want to support. And so St Elizabeth people, we will come again,” Henry said. In his address, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen charged Henry to execute the role with sound judgement, objectivity, and the ability to command public confidence. “You will be my representative in St Elizabeth, and that means that you will support the administration of justice, provide leadership to the network of justices of the peace, and encourage civic participation. I welcome your intention to improve access to the justices of the peace in St Elizabeth, to maintain meaningful engagement with communities, and encourage opportunities for our young people,” said Sir Patrick. “Such priorities are especially pertinent as St Elizabeth continues its recovery and renewal. You have spoken of the importance of listening, learning, and seeking wise counsel. I encourage you to remain guided by these principles, recognising that the distinction of public office rests ultimately upon the honour with which its responsibilities are discharged,” added Sir Patrick. The governor general said Henry’s long-standing investment in education, institutional governance, and national development has earned the businessman his confidence. “He has demonstrated the vision and discipline required to establish enterprises, navigate complex responsibilities, and forge enduring partnerships. However, his contribution to St Elizabeth extends beyond commercial enterprise. “As inaugural chairman of the St Elizabeth Community Development Foundation, and through its involvement with the St Elizabeth Homecoming Foundation, he has helped to foster cooperation and advance the interests of the parish. These experiences assume relevance as he undertakes the responsibilities of custos rotulorum,” said Sir Patrick.