PRESS RELEASES & ANNOUNCEMENTS
November 28, 2008
EGM called to discuss the death penalty and the Government's Anti-Crime Plan
The Council of the JBA has called an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Association to discuss the proposed constitutional amendments to reduce the protections against cruel and inhumane treatment relative to the carrying out of the death penalty, as well as the Government's Anti-Crime Plan.
The EGM is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2008 at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Inter-Faculty Lecture Theatre, starting at 10:00am.
November 21, 2008
The JBA expresses concerns about Civil Court Rooms at the Jamaica Conference Centre
The President wrote to the Minister of Justice, Hon. Minister Dorothy Lightbourne, QC, to express concerns about the newly commissioned Civil Courts at the Jamaica Conference Centre. Since the use of the courtrooms at the Jamaica Conference Centre commenced, practitioners have complained, expressing concerns relative to security and efficiency as it affects the Bar as well as the Bench. For reasons of security, convenience and efficiency, the JBA is of the view that facilities contiguous to the present Supreme Court building would better serve the the needs of all.
November 5, 2008
The Election of Barack Obama as President of the USA
The Jamaican Bar Association joins in congratulating the people of the United States of America on their historic election of Barack Obama the first African American to the highest office of president of that country.
We consider it important to note and celebrate this undoubtedly remarkable development. We bear in mind the close historic ties between our two nations and the similarities of our historic experiences. We also note with pride the contribution to the building of that country by thousands of Jamaicans living and working there including their participation in the recent election process.
October 31, 2008
New Civil Court Rooms at the Jamaica Conference Centre
Further to the commissioning of additional Court rooms for the Supreme Court at the Jamaica Conference Centre, these Courts have been designated as Civil Courts 1, 2 and 3. Practitioners are notified that the appointed date for commencement of use of these Court rooms is November 3, 2008. Please look out for further notices from the Supreme Court and the Bar regarding specific arrangements to accommodate Counsel and confirmation.
October 7, 2008
President Meets with the Minister of National Security
The President paid a courtesy call on the Minister of National Security on October 7, 2008 to initiate dialogue on areas of common interest. It was provisionally agreed that a briefing of the Bar relative to initiatives to reform the police force would be held. The President also suggested that the police could treat with children who come in contact with the Criminal Justice System a little differently by designing an approach akin to that taken when "patients" are being admitted to a facility which would include detailed information about their health, family life, and social situation generally. The Minister promised to put this suggestion forward for consideration.