KINGSTON, Jamaica — Cabinet has approved an increase in the stipend for jurors, says Minister of Justice, Delroy Chuck.

Making the announcement during his contribution to the 2024/25 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on May 21, the minister said each juror whose name is called for any circuit, will be paid $2,000 for each day he/she attends.

He further noted that jurors who are empanelled and who serve on a case will now receive $6,000 per day, instead of the present $2,000. He said this represents a 200 per cent increase.

“This is necessary because a lot of jurors, especially in the rural areas, have to take taxi from way in the hills down to the town. They spend money to get there; yes, sometimes they are not empanelled, so we think it is appropriate that once they are served with a summons to come to court and your name is called and you are there, you can be reimbursed $2,000. If you serve for the day, you get $6,000,” Chuck said.

He pointed out that the necessary regulations will be brought to Parliament to support the changes.

Chuck said the ministry is well aware of the challenges facing the jury system and has had several discussions with stakeholders on ways to improve this important arm of justice.

Meanwhile, he said the ministry continues to improve the resources provided to the nation’s courts.

“Shortly, we will be putting in solar panels. We have started at the Sutton Street and the Half-Way Tree courts and we hope to put solar panels in most of the courts across Jamaica. This will ensure that we move towards a greener environment,” the minister said.

— JIS