Despite same-sex marriage being illegal in Jamaica, the Justice Ministry is reporting that it has been receiving an increasing number of applications for same-sex marriage licences.

Portfolio Minister Delroy Chuck, in his contribution to the sectoral debate in the house of representatives yesterday (May 2), noted that this, however, is not permissible.

Section 18 (2) of the Charter of Rights states, that no form of marriage or other relationship other than the voluntary union of one man and one woman, may be contracted or legally recognised in Jamaica.

Minister Chuck suggested that the government has no intention to change this any time soon.