September 30, 2026

Industrial Disputes Tribunal says it remains committed to delivering reasoned and fair rulings amid calls by doctors to issue delayed ruling

The Industrial Disputes Tribunal (IDT) says it remains committed to delivering reasoned and fair rulings.

It adds that it will continuously work to improve benchmark standards for more timely delivery of awards, as soon as proceedings are completed.

The IDT issued a statement today saying it was compelled to publicly address the issue surrounding the timeliness of awards.

This as it takes note of pronouncements by the Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA) that it cannot guarantee normality in the public health system if the IDT fails to finalise its award by Friday, October 2.

The IDT  did not  say when  the ruling would be handed down.  It is to determine and settle the dispute between the JMDA and the Government over emergency duty allowance or compensation for extra hours worked.

According to the IDT, it is fully aware that unusual delays in handing down awards could erode the public’s confidence in its work as a quasi-judicial body charged with the responsibility of balancing justice between employers and workers in the
industrial relations system.

It says while the legal maxim holds true, that ‘justice delayed is justice denied’, it’s mindful that in complex and intricate matters, requiring extensive review of exhibits and authorities, ‘justice must also be careful.’

The IDT cites the Labour Relations and Industrial Disputes Act (LRIDA) section 12(1) for its provision for an award to be handed down “…within 21 days after the dispute or if impracticable to make an award within that period, to do so as soon as may be practicable.”

However, the IDT says it is always virtually impossible to do so having regard to meeting schedules and unexpected delays.

The Tribunal notes that the delivering of awards with reasonable promptness is a core judicial function.

Where delays are excessive, it has a duty to apologise, and urge the parties to the dispute, as well as the public, to exercise patience.

The IDT is urging the parties engaged in industrial disputes before it to uphold the guiding principles of industrial peace and harmony, and assures the parties and the public of its commitment to delivering just and fair settlements.