Chief Justice Bryan Sykes’ disclosure that it was a telephone call from Justice Ian Forte that first steered him toward a judicial career is one of several tributes paid to the former Court of Appeal President. The 89-year-old died on Friday.

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, Justice Minister Delroy Chuck and President of the Court of Appeal Justice Marva McDonald-Bishop are among officials who have lauded Forte for his contributions to the justice system in Jamaica, and the region over the last five decades.

Sykes said Justice Forte served his country “with distinction and honour”, adding that throughout his judicial career, Forte “demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fairness, independence, integrity, and excellence.”