The amendments to the Disaster Risk Management Act were again passed in the Lower House, but without the support of the Opposition, People’s National Party, who objected to modifications being made which spoke to the declaration of a disaster area and the offenses and penalties thereof.
This despite an affirmative resolution from the Upper House on the amendments to the principal act last week Friday.
Contending views were expressed as it relates to offenses and penalties to be implemented in an aim to increase the level of compliance in keeping with the COVID-19 protocols.
Initially the Opposition took issue with Section 52 of the act which seeks to convict someone in breach of orders outlined in Section 27.
This to the Leader of the Opposition’s understanding will result in a criminal conviction going on the record.
But the Government refuted this and after a robust debate the bill was again passed.
The bill is now to be signed by the Governor General; once signed the amended orders is expected to come into effect.
Robian Williams reports for CVM Live:
