Police, Fire and, Forensic Bills Referred to Select Parliamentary Committee

Parliament Refers Three Key Bills to Select Committee for Further Review

St. John’s, Antigua – Three significant legislative proposals—the Fire and Rescue Services Bill 2025, the Forensic Services Bill 2025, and the Police Bill 2025—have been referred to a select committee of Parliament for further examination. Attorney General Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin presented the bills in the House of Representatives, highlighting their critical role in modernizing emergency response, law enforcement, and forensic capabilities in Antigua and Barbuda.

The Fire and Rescue Services Bill 2025 seeks to replace the outdated Fire Brigade Act 1954, which was enacted over seven decades ago. The Attorney General pointed out that the existing legislation contains provisions referencing antiquated firefighting techniques, such as the use of trolleys, which are no longer relevant in today’s context.

“This bill provides the necessary framework for the operations of the Fire and Rescue Services. Firefighters today play a vital role beyond just extinguishing fires—they respond to road accidents, conduct sea rescues, and provide emergency assistance alongside the Emergency Medical Services (EMS),” Benjamin explained.

To ensure comprehensive scrutiny, the bill has been assigned to a select committee composed of members from St. John’s Rural West, St. Philip’s South, All Saints West, St. John’s City East, and St. John’s City South, with the latter serving as the convenor. The committee is expected to submit its findings at the next parliamentary session.

The Forensic Services Bill 2025 is another critical piece of legislation aimed at strengthening law enforcement capabilities. The bill proposes the establishment of a professional forensic services department, marking a historic step for Antigua and Barbuda, which will become the first country in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to formally enshrine forensic services into law.

“This bill is essential for modern criminal investigations,” Benjamin stated. “It will enable ballistic testing, forensic mapping, fingerprint and footprint lifting, and other investigative procedures crucial for solving crimes efficiently.”

The Attorney General emphasized that the select committee will allow for expert input and technical recommendations to enhance the bill before its final approval. The same parliamentary members assigned to review the Fire and Rescue Services Bill will also examine this legislation.

The Police Bill 2025 aims to repeal and replace the Police Act of 1952, which has remained unchanged for 73 years. Benjamin underscored the need for modernization, citing advancements in policing methodologies and the evolving nature of crime.

“This bill enhances governance structures, clearly defines the roles of police officers, and introduces mechanisms for improved oversight, professional development, and welfare benefits,” he noted. “Additionally, it establishes a transparent and independent system for handling public complaints against police officers.”

Among its provisions, the bill proposes the regulation of modern policing equipment such as body cameras and the use of police dogs while ensuring officers receive adequate remuneration and retirement benefits. The bill also recommends renaming the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda to the Antigua and Barbuda Police Service to reflect its evolving role in community policing.

As with the other two bills, the Police Bill 2025 will undergo review by the select committee before being brought back to Parliament for debate and approval. The committee, chaired by the member for St. John’s City South, includes representatives from both the government and opposition.

The select committee is expected to consult with stakeholders, including emergency service professionals, law enforcement personnel, and forensic experts, before presenting their recommendations. Parliament will review their findings at the next sitting, after which the bills may be further refined before being passed into law.

These legislative updates reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening national security, emergency response, and forensic science capabilities in Antigua and Barbuda.

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