Attorney General Presents Broad Legislative Agenda Ahead of Parliamentary Session

EDITOR
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Attorney General Steadroy 'Cutie' Benjamin

Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin on Wednesday presented a broad slate of proposed legislation to be debated during the upcoming session of Parliament, outlining what Government officials described as an ambitious agenda focused on governance reform, public safety, social protection and institutional modernization.

The legislative package spans multiple ministries and includes measures aimed at strengthening policing, justice systems, public health, immigration controls and social protections.

Among the key proposals are reforms relating to policing, fire and rescue services, forensic services and electronic crimes under the Ministry of Legal Affairs, Public Safety, Information and Labour.

Cabinet also confirmed that amendments to laws governing sexual offences, plea negotiations and workplace violence and harassment are expected to be debated during the parliamentary session.

The Attorney General additionally highlighted proposed legislation targeting vagrancy and child protection.

According to Government officials, updates to vagrancy laws are intended to modernize the legal framework surrounding homelessness and public order through what was described as balanced and practical measures.

At the same time, proposed amendments to child abuse legislation are expected to strengthen protections for minors, improve reporting mechanisms and introduce stricter penalties for offenders.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs is also expected to bring forward legislation related to food safety, pharmacy regulation, mental health services and medical laboratories.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration is preparing measures addressing immigration procedures, passport services and advance passenger information systems aimed at strengthening border security and international compliance.

Additional legislation under the Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnerships will include proposed amendments to the Citizenship by Investment Programme and a Prices Bill focused on enhancing consumer protection.

Cabinet also confirmed that the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation will introduce amendments relating to disabilities and equal opportunities legislation as part of efforts to strengthen inclusion and equity.

The Attorney General said the legislative agenda reflects the Government’s commitment to building a safer, fairer and more resilient society through comprehensive policy reform and institutional strengthening.

He added that the proposed laws are the product of extensive consultation and careful policy planning and encouraged stakeholders to actively engage in the parliamentary process ahead of debate.

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