The establishment of a Law Commission is on the cards for Barbados, as Government seeks to constantly update the island’s legislation.
This was highlighted by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Dale Marshall, during a recent courtesy call with United States Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Linda Taglialatela. Permanent Secretary, Yvette Goddard and Deputy Permanent Secretary, Charles Piggott, were also present.
Marshall stated that part of his Ministry’s focus was on an active Law Review Commission to ensure that the island stayed current with its laws. However, he noted that while Barbados presently had 300 statutes on the books, the island was experiencing challenges in some areas.
To counter these challenges, the Attorney General said Government was also seeking to strengthen its Legal Drafting Department and the island’s judiciary. However, he indicated that Government had a number of issues to consider and “solid friendships” going forward would be beneficial.
In response, the US Ambassador said her government would be happy to collaborate and give assistance where possible through the necessary training.
Other matters discussed during the wide-ranging talks included sentencing guidelines; terrorism; integrity legislation work being done to tackle at-risk youth; and the enhanced air passenger information system. (BGIS)
