Views sought on proposed new legislation

PUBLIC views are being sought on new legislation that would both improve existing laws and seek to introduce changes that will enhance the Criminal Justice system.

The draft Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2009 will amend 26 existing Acts. It contains 85 clauses, which are ordered into six chapters for the purposes of the public consultation.

• Chapter 1: Powers and organisation of the police
• Chapter 2: Licensing Act amendments
• Chapter 3: Sex offences and obscene publications
• Chapter 4: Drugs offences
• Chapter 5: Community safety and public order
• Chapter 6: Miscellaneous other amendments to legislation

Home Affairs Minister Adrian Earnshaw explained:

‘As residents of the Isle of Man we are all fortunate to live in a safe community, as clearly evidenced by the Chief Constable’s Annual Report for 2008 – 2009.

‘However, we cannot rest upon our laurels nor ignore the need for improving our legislation based upon our own experiences and those of other jurisdictions.

‘The proposed Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2009 seeks to achieve this goal by amending and improving a wide range of the Island’s existing legislation. Some of these changes provide for new police powers and new offences, others merely modernise existing legislation to ensure that it is effectively enforced.

‘It is my wish, and the intention of the Department, that these changes will aid the prevention and punishment of criminal offences along with improving the protection of the Island’s community.’

Mr Earnshaw added:

‘The Department of Home Affairs is keen to consult the public over provisions in the draft legislation before taking the Bill through the branches of Tynwald. Public views can have a direct effect on the content of these proposed policy changes, and I would welcome anyone who has an interest making their views known to the Department before the November 18 deadline.’

Anyone who wishes to view the consultation can visit here where all documentation is available. Alternatively, printed copies can be obtained by contacting Tom Bateman, Legislation Manager, at the Department of Home Affairs, telephone 01624 694305.