The Tribune

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

HUMAN Rights Bahamas wants members of the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee (PHRC) to tackle police brutality, arbitrary detentions, and inhumane prison conditions.

The organisation released a statement yesterday after the government said the committee had its first session on February 27, nearly two years after Parliament approved its formation.

“We encourage its members to work expeditiously and meaningfully to address the many serious human rights challenges that continue to face the Bahamian public,” Human Rights Bahamas said.

“These include violations of labour and workplace rights; police brutality; arbitrary arrests and detentions; and inhumane prison conditions, among others. We look forward to working closely with this committee to improve the lives of Bahamians and residents in line with the rights and protections enshrined in the Constitution.”

The resolution to establish the committee was passed on April 26, 2023.

St Anne’s MP Adrian White, a committee member, outlined two key objectives: facilitating dialogue with human rights entities and addressing necessary legislative amendments.

He shared his priorities with The Tribune, noting that the committee would focus on: “First, minors who can’t defend themselves; second, adults who need additional assistance, such as individuals with disabilities or victims of domestic violence or discrimination; third, non-citizens; and fourth, incarcerated individuals.”

Senator Michela Barnett-Ellis, deputy chair of the committee, stressed the need to review the implementation of existing human rights laws and ensure government agencies’ policies align with these regulations.

“We also need to address our international obligations, as we’ve signed various treaties. It’s essential we implement what’s necessary to meet these commitments,” she said.

“There’s a lot to be done simultaneously. We need to ensure our existing laws are being properly implemented and achieving their goals, while also fulfilling our international human rights obligations.”

Senator Erecia Hepburn-Forbes, another PHRC member, confirmed a meeting would take place this week.