The Bail Amendment Bill in its current form is a dangerous thing. Especially if it is placed in the hands of a disorganised police service as the current.While the AG and his Government in their forever PR mode rush to make the public feel that they are doing something to fight crime, declare it as a panacea against violent criminals, it could be a snare for some unfortunate innocent accused, as outlined by Independent Senator Elton Prescod in his recent Senate contribution.
The crime situation as serious as it may be, is no reason for the Government to pass bad laws.I would like to suggest to the AG and his Government that they introduce legislation to have the same class of accused persons be outfitted with a GPS ankle bracelet (as is done in the US) that would monitor their whereabouts while out on bail awaiting their day in court.
In this way the constitutional rights of the accused may not be infringed. The legislation may need only a simple majority to pass and I am sure it will find favour among the both Opposition and Independents in the House and Senate.
M Baptiste,
Couva