PASSAGE OF AMENDMENT BILL PAVES THE WAY FOR NEW PARKS ACROSS ST. KITTS

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 29, 2024 (SKNIS): The passage of the Public Parks Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2024, has made it easier for the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs to establish family parks across St. Kitts.

The Bill was passed in the National Assembly on Thursday, November 28, 2024. It was successfully piloted by the Honourable Samal Duggins, Minister of Sports and Member of Parliament for St. Christopher Four (4).

Senator, the Honourable Isalean Phillip, fully endorsed the Bill in her capacity as the Minister of State responsible for Social Development and Gender Affairs. She emphasised that the changes will help to facilitate new parks similar to the popular Family Park in New Road.

“We have already reached out to the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Physical Planning to see where there are designated green spaces so that we can start to get a sense of what would be necessary for us to actually establish some small family recreational parks or parkettes in various communities around St. Kitts,” she stated.

The Public Parks Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduces several important updates. It grants the prime minister the authority to declare public parks, either independently or in consultation with other Ministers or the Premier of Nevis, providing greater flexibility in park creation. The Bill also designates the Ministry that proposes a park as responsible for its management and maintenance, ensuring accountability and proper upkeep. Additionally, the Bill updates key definitions to reflect contemporary governance practices.

Senator Phillip emphasised that the ministry’s role is to find ways to “build community cohesion and strengthen families,” noting that the addition of more public green spaces will support this goal. She also highlighted that children will benefit from increased opportunities to play in safe, natural environments that encourage physical activity.

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