Jamaicans are being urged to hold their criticism of the new bail act until its tabled in parliament.

Justice minister Delroy Chuck made the appeal on Thursday.

There has been raging public debate over the new bail act, after comments from Legal and Constitutional Affairs minister Marlene Malahoo Forte.

The main issue relates to bail for persons on a gun or murder charge.

Mr Chuck pointed out that discussion on the act is still taking place.

He said oftentimes judges are put in a very difficult situation to balance the rights and freedoms of offenders.