In a significant move to strengthen civic participation, Jamaica’s House of Representatives has approved a monumental increase in juror compensation. Justice Minister Delroy Chuck presented the amendment to the Jury Act on Tuesday, which mandates a 300% raise in daily stipends for citizens performing jury duty.
The revised legislation elevates the daily payment from $2,000 to $6,000 per day. Furthermore, it introduces a groundbreaking provision offering $2,000 per day to individuals who participate in the jury selection process but are not ultimately chosen to serve on a trial.
Minister Chuck emphasized that this adjustment reflects the government’s recognition of jurors’ indispensable role in maintaining a democratic justice system. The substantial increase addresses long-standing criticisms that the previous compensation failed to cover basic expenses like transportation and meals, creating financial hardship for citizens fulfilling their civic obligations.
“This modification, though modest, demonstrates our acknowledgment of the financial burden jury duty imposes on ordinary Jamaicans,” Chuck stated during his ministerial address. He highlighted the government’s “deep appreciation” for those who set aside their personal responsibilities to serve the national interest.
The reform arrives amid ongoing discussions about potentially phasing out jury trials in favor of bench trials presided over solely by judges—a position supported by Chief Justice Bryan Sykes. Nevertheless, the stipend enhancement aims to incentivize greater participation in the judicial process by mitigating financial barriers for prospective jurors.
Minister Chuck acknowledged that the amendment’s presentation followed extensive deliberation to ensure the proposed increases were appropriate and sustainable. The government anticipates that these measures will offset expenses incurred by jurors and strengthen the foundation of Jamaica’s justice system.