RMs are back

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE (RM) courts across the island resumed hearing cases yesterday after resident magistrates staged a sickout on Thursday protesting the Government's tardiness in responding to their concerns.

The RMs are reportedly upset about the Government's failure to provide adequate security for them and to remove them from the post of civil servants and have them classified as members of the judiciary.

When The Gleaner visited the Spanish Town Resident Magistrate's Court yesterday, scores of persons were seen entering and exiting courtrooms.

Meanwhile, activities were back to normal at Port Antonio and Manchioneal courthouses in Portland. A source said approximately 80 cases were suspended at both facilities on Thursday.

- Rasbert Turner & Gareth Davis