Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, May 14, 2024 — The Honourable Dr Terrance Drew, Prime Minister, is lauding the achievements of the National Assembly during the current Parliamentary Term. In just 19 months since the term began on October 25, 2022, the National Assembly has sat in 19 sessions and a total of 41 new laws have been debated, passed, and enacted. The legislative agenda has been robust, with 53 new Bills tabled during this period.
These laws cover a wide range of topics, from domestic violence to small business support, new aviation regulations, and public health measures. Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew has expressed his delight that the National Assembly is working overtime for the benefit of the citizens and residents of St Kitts and Nevis, “we promised during the 2022 election campaign that there would be a good governance transformation in our Federation. Creating and passing important modern laws is a fundamental aspect of good governance. I am particularly proud that we now have the strongest anti-corruption and accountability laws in the region, and that we now have modern regulatory laws to govern the safe operations of Medical Laboratories, Radiation Devices, and food suppliers, with the Consumer Protection Act.”
Among the other significant Acts passed are the Domestic Violence (Amendment) Act, which has strengthened the protections for victims of domestic violence; the Rastafari Rights Recognition Act, which recognizes and solidifies the rights of the Rastafarian community; and the National Productivity Council Act, which seeks to promote higher levels of productivity throughout the national workforce.
Cabinet Ministers: (L-R) Attorney General Hon. Garth Wilkin, Hon. Samal Duggins, Hon. Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Hon. Isalean Phillip, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, Senior Minister Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas, Hon. Marsha Henderson, Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, and Hon. Konris Maynard.
However, beyond the sheer number of laws, the transformation to a Sustainable Island State is at the heart of these legislative efforts. As a small island nation, St Kitts and Nevis faces the potential of more frequent devastating disasters due to climate change, through no fault of its own. Modernizing laws ensures the Federation can adapt to climate change impacts and build resilience against future shocks.
“By updating legislation related to small businesses, investment promotion, banking, and the Orange Economy, Saint Kitts and Nevis aims to diversify its economy. These laws encourage entrepreneurship, attract foreign investment, and create a more sustainable economic base. The Acts related to public health, smoking, and animal health recognize the importance of safeguarding the environment and citizens’ well-being,” said Hon. Dr Drew.
In the journey toward sustainability, Saint Kitts and Nevis recognizes that modernizing laws is not just about legal texts, it’s about shaping a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking society. The National Assembly’s active role in this transformation underscores its dedication to progress and the well-being of citizens.
