KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – Five judges were sworn in today to serve in the Supreme Court, while two Masters-in-Chambers also took the oath of office, at King’s House.

Lorna Shelly-Williams, Chester Stamp, Vinette Graham Allen were sworn in as puisne judges of the supreme court, while Sonia Bertram Linton and Dale Palmer will act as puisne judges. Rosemarie Harris and Carolyn Tie will serve as masters-in-chambers.

The seven were sworn in by Governor-General Patrick Allen, who congratulated them on their achievement.

He reminded the judges of the importance of maintaining high standards of transparency, integrity and accountability.   

“Guard against the ills of complacency, because your appointment is not simply a signal of victory but a stimulant to intensify your devotion to the continuous building of our judicial system,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chief Justice Zaila McCalla, also extended congratulations to those who were sworn in, noting that they were selected to be confirmed as judges and masters-in-chambers as they have demonstrated themselves worthy.

“I urge these judicial officers to continue to provide the best service possible to the citizens of our country,” she said.

She further encouraged them to embrace the initiatives being pursued by the Government for the improvement of the justice system and to work collaboratively towards this with other participants in the system.

Responding on behalf of the judges, Shelly-Williams said it was an honour to be selected.

“We are aware of the awesome responsibilities and expectations that we have been entrusted with and the high standards of our predecessors. We hope to be able to live up to these expectations and maintain these standards,” she said.