Two judges, who have been appointed to serve in the Supreme Court, were sworn into office on (Monday) January 7, at a ceremony held at King’s House.

They are: Hon. Justice Vivene Juliet Harris and Hon. Justice Sonia Bertram Linton, who have been appointed to serve as Puisine Judge and Master-in-Chambers, respectively.

Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, who presided over the brief ceremony, congratulated the judges, noting that their appointment is indicative of the quality service they have given so far to the court system.

“We extend our sincere appreciation to both judges for their distinguished contribution to the judiciary and by extension, Jamaica,” he stated.

The Governor-General further encouraged the judges to continue to work diligently to uphold the laws of Jamaica and to build the trust that Jamaicans have in the integrity of the country’s justice system.

Chief Justice, Hon. Zaila McCalla, in her remarks, noted that both judges have previously acted in similar capacities and it is because of their performance in those instances that they have been called upon to serve again this term.

She further reminded the judges that they are accountable to the people that they are sworn to serve and that they must perform in accordance with the oaths that they have taken.

Mrs. McCalla also encouraged the judges to press on in spite of the many challenges they face, including shortages of human and physical resources in certain areas. “(We cannot) allow (this) to derail us from our duty to dispense justice fairly and efficiently,” she stated.

Responding on behalf of the appointees, Justice Harris pledged to treat those who come before her for justice with “humility and courtesy”.

 “We pledge to follow the example of our colleagues and maintain the tradition of the Jamaican judiciary by labouring tirelessly in spite of the challenges we face, to ensure that we deliver a high quality of justice for all,” she said.