Constitutional issues to be resolved before mandatory placing of father's names on birth certificates – Holness

Prime Minister Andrew Holness says constitutional issues will have to be resolved before the Government can make it mandatory for the names of fathers to appear on birth certificates.

He was responding to a question from by Central Kingston Member of Parliament, Ronald Thwaites, who sought an update on the legislation.

The proposed legislation has been stalled since 2009 when then Prime Minister, Bruce Golding, issued drafting instructions.

Speaking in Parliament yesterday, Prime Minister Holness said the legislation is being reviewed by the current administration

He further said while there is support for the proposal there are concerns that the legislation will infringe on human rights.

Prime Minister Holness said the matter may be placed before a joint select committee of Parliament for resolution.

He committed to having the legislation in place within the life of the Jamaica Labour Party’s term in office.