Lawmakers to be kept busy this year
Published:Friday | April 4, 2014 | 12:00 AM
Edmond Campbell, Staff Reporter
LAWMAKERS SHOULD be kept busy in the new legislative year with several pieces of legislation, some in gestation for extended periods, to be tabled for deliberation and passage.
The Integrity Commission Bill to establish a single Anti-Corruption entity, which was tabled late in the just concluded 2013-2014 legislative year, will return to Parliament for debate and passage.
The bill will pave the way for a single body to assume the functions of the Commission for the Prevention of Corruption, the Integrity Commission and the Office of the Contractor General.
The National Contracts Commission (NCC) will be placed within its own independent administrative structure.
Another critical proposed statute to be introduced in the current legislative year is the Evidence (Amendment) Bill. It will provide for a more efficient trial process, by facilitating a more straightforward introduction of computer records into evidence. It will allow for the uncontested reports of experts to be admitted into evidence without the need to call the expert.
In delivering the Throne Speech during the ceremonial opening of Parliament yesterday, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen said the National Disabilities Bill will be tabled. This proposed law will provide for further protection and legal entrenchment of the rights of persons with disabilities.
Building Bill
The long-awaited Building Bill will also be tabled. The legislative measure will improve the efficiency of the building approval process and provide a framework for the effective management of the building industry.
Lawmakers are also expected to debate and pass a bill to Amend the Administrator General's Act this year. This will address the difficulties in the administration of multi-generational estates as well as the modernisation of the rules governing the probate of wills.
Sir Patrick also announced that the Occupational Safety and Health Act will be tabled this legislative year. The proposed statute will provide the framework for securing the protection of workers. It also aims to establish a joint Health and Safety Council to monitor the safety and well-being of workers.
In Calendar year 2013 the Parliament passed 40 pieces of legislation.