Employees Entitled Time Off to Vote

#Kingston, February 22, 2024 – As the February 26 Local Government Elections approach, the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) is reminding employers that workers are entitled time off to vote.

Director of Elections, Glasspole Brown, told JIS News that under the law, every employer is required to permit employees who intend to vote, three hours to do so. This is in addition to the usual lunch hour.

“I appeal to the business owners [and] various institutions, allow persons who are desirous of casting their ballots the time off to go and do so; and they should be allowed three hours between the period of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.,” he said.

Mr. Brown noted that the law does not apply to persons who commence work at 10:00 a.m. or later, or end work at or before 2:00 p.m.

Electors are encouraged to make the appropriate arrangements with their employers before Election Day.

They are also encouraged to vote throughout the day, rather than just the first two hours of polling when the lines are longest.

Voters are also reminded to bring their Voter Identification (ID) card on Election Day, as it will allow for quicker and easier processing.

“However, I must point out that even if you do not have your ID card, you will be allowed to vote as long as your name is on the voters’ list. We have several processes to be able to identify you as an elector. While it is important and would help the system in bringing your ID card, as long as your name is on the list, you will be accommodated to vote on Election Day,” Mr. Brown stated.

Persons without an ID will be required to answer questions, take an oath, and be fingerprinted to verify their identity.

Contact: Shanna K. Salmon

Release: JIS