New security arrangements coming for Supreme Court

Chief Justice Bryan Sykes has announced the implementation of a new security policy for entry into the Supreme Court (Public Building East), effective Monday, April 7.

In a media release today, Sykes says the measure is being instituted to enhance the safety and security of all court users and staff.

Under the new policy, the following measures will be enforced:

• Restricted Access to Rear Entrance (Temple Lane): Only judges, court staff, police officers, jurors, Attorneys-at-Law with Government employee ID or General Legal Council (GLC) ID, and specific Government Department employees will be permitted to use this entrance. All other visitors must use the main entrance on King Street.

• Mandatory Identification Display: Individuals permitted through the Temple Lane entrance must have their official IDs/passes prominently always displayed.

• Colour-Coded Visitor Pass System: Visitors will be issued colour-coded passes corresponding to specific floors, restricting movement within the building. If a visitor needs access to multiple floors, they must obtain a new pass from the designated issuing

point.

• Identification Requirements for Attorneys-at-Law: Those without a GLC or Government employee ID must enter through King Street and obtain a visitor’s pass.

• Specialised Passes for Legal Clerks, Bearers, and Law Students: These individuals must present a valid identification from their institutions or employers to receive a pass granting access to multiple floors.

• Media Access: Members of the media will be issued a unique colour-coded pass upon presenting a valid ID from their media house.

• Exemptions for Court Participants Without Government ID: Accused individuals on bail or parties in civil matters without a government-issued ID will undergo verification and be issued a visitor’s pass. Other individuals without ID must present a certified letter and photograph from a Justice of the Peace.

• Firearm Restrictions: Only police officers and Jamaica Defence Force members are allowed to carry firearms on the premises. Licensed firearm holders must ensure the safe and responsible storage of their weapons before attempting to enter the building. They are advised to consult the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) for guidance on proper weapon storage practices.

• Security Screening: Security screening will commence at 9:00 AM daily. Court users are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled hearing.

Sykes says the security measures will be monitored closely and reviewed on a regular basis.

He says the judiciary is dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone using the

Supreme Court.

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