Gov't to employ retired judges

Jovan Johnson, Parliamentary Reporter

The government will soon be seeking an amendment to the Constitution to allow for the employment of some judges who have passed the statutory retirement age.

Under the Constitution, judges must retire at age 70.

During his contribution to the Sectoral Debate today, Chuck said the retirement age for judges would remain.

However, he said changes to the Constitution will ensure that the Chief Justice and the President of the Court of Appeal can call on retired judges as needed.

Chuck argued that some of Jamaica's most competent judges are called upon to serve in other jurisdictions after they retire and Jamaica could be benefiting from their expertise.

He told the House of Representatives that he hopes the changes to the Constitution can be made by next year the latest.