(1) The Court may direct that not more than 6 jurors in addition to the regular jury be called and empanelled to sit as alternate jurors.
(2) Alternate jurors in the order in which they are called, shall replace jurors who, prior to the time the jury retires to consider its verdict, have become or are found to be unable or disqualified to perform their duties.
(3) An alternate juror who does not replace a regular juror shall be discharged after the jury retires to consider its verdict.
(4) Alternate jurors shall be drawn in the same manner, shall have the same qualifications, and have the same powers, facilities and privileges as the regular jurors.
(5) In relation to alternate jurors, in addition to the challenges permitted under section 958—
(a) where one person is indicted, the prosecution and the accused person each shall be entitled to one peremptory challenge; and
(b) where 2 or more persons are jointly indicted—
(i) each accused person shall be entitled to one peremptory challenge,
(ii) the prosecution shall be entitled to one peremptory challenge in respect of each person charged.