National Reserve Soldiers Given Their Marching Orders

Dozens of soldiers in the National Reserve are searching for their next move. This they say, is after they have been booted without being given adequate time to adjust and without a pension.

The soldiers, the majority of whom are within the “legacy callout” class of the Jamaica National Reserve say they were put on mandatory leave without being given any notice. The layoffs reportedly started in September.

To add, for soldiers who have failed training tests, they say they were not given the chance to execute a second time, a process established by the Jamaica Defence Force.

The officers argue that the very procedure that was put in place to ensure that they are protected was bypassed by those who should enforce them.

According to the officers, those in the legacy call out work permanently. They receive a basic salary and are entitled to medical, allowances and leave. However, for those who are made to stand down, they only work 10 days for the month which is taxable. 

Moreover, unlike officers in the JDF, those in the reserve do not have a pension plan. 

CVM LIVE understands that there are plans to phase out the battalion as part of expansion efforts within the JDF.

However, the soldiers said Chief of Defense, Major General Rocky Meade assured the officers that they will not be forced out. Now, they say priority is being given to specialized soldiers.

Additionally, they are calling on the Minister of Defense, Prime Minister Andrew Holness to intervene.

CVM LIVE reached out to the Jamaica Defence Force again about the issue but has yet to receive a response.

Our Reporter, Jamaila Maitland has Part Two of this exclusive report.