THE EDITOR, Sir:
I WAS drafted to serve as a juror for three weeks (March 24 - April 14, 2000) at the Morant Bay Circuit Court in St. Thomas. I was empanelled to serve on a rape and murder case. On the latter, I was privileged to serve as the foreman juror, in which the accused person was found guilty and sentenced to 25 years in prison.
My juror claim form was appropriately filled out and submitted to the court's office when the session came to a close. After waiting about one year, without being paid, I went back to the court's office in Morant Bay. The clerk checked the records, which proved I had served as juror and I was given another claim form which I filled out. I waited another six months, but to no avail.
Once again I contacted the court's office in Morant Bay. I was directed to the Ministry of Justice and was given the assurance that the claim had been received at the ministry, and the matter would be dealt with. I have called the ministry on several occasions only to be given the 'run around'. It has now been five years.
Unfortunately, during the time I served as a juror, I was not paid by my employer for days missed. It is an insult to people who would really like to serve in such a position. The entire justice system needs attention and this should be a priority.
I am, etc.,
ROY CRUICKSHANK
Port Morant P.O.
St. Thomas
