The Parliament has passed the Public Parks Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2024, marking a significant step forward in the management and development of public parks across the Federation. The updated legislation, moved by Samal Duggins, Minister responsible for Agriculture, Fisheries, Marine Resources and Cooperatives, Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Sports, and the Creative Economy, reflects the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable green spaces for all citizens.
The Bill, which modernises the outdated 1944 Public Parks Regulation Act, incorporates critical updates to address the evolving needs of communities. Minister Duggins highlighted the importance of this amendment, noting that the previous framework, last revised in 1998, lacked provisions for community parks designed to serve multiple purposes such as family recreation, playgrounds, and environmental education.
Key Features of the Amendment
The Public Parks Regulation (Amendment) Bill introduces several significant changes, including:
- Prime Minister’s Authority: Empowering the prime minister to declare public parks independently or after consultation with other ministers, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to community needs.
- Inter-Ministerial Collaboration: Allowing any ministry to propose parks tailored to specific goals, with the proposing ministry assigned responsibility for management and upkeep, ensuring accountability.
- Modern Definitions and Frameworks: Updating key definitions to reflect contemporary governance standards and practices.
“This Bill is about creating more opportunities for our people,” Minister Duggins stated. “More parks for more people—this amendment allows ministries such as Social Development and Environment to create parks that cater to children, families, and communities, not just athletes or tourists.”
Advancing National and Global Sustainability Goals
The legislation aligns with the government’s vision of transforming St. Kitts and Nevis into a sustainable island state while advancing multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
By promoting the development of accessible green spaces and fostering environmental stewardship, the Bill supports:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
- SDG 13: Climate Action.
- SDG 15: Life on Land.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Minister Duggins underscored the broader implications of the legislation, stating, “This Bill is a statement of our commitment to creating a future where every citizen benefits from shared public spaces that support health, culture, and the environment. By linking the development and management of parks with sustainable practices, this amendment contributes significantly to our national vision and the global goals under the UN SDGs.”
Demonstrating Committment to Sustainable Community Development
First introduced in Parliament on 8th November 2024, the Bill has received widespread support for its focus on enhancing community spaces, reflecting the values and aspirations of the Federation’s citizens. The updated legislation not only ensures that public parks serve diverse community needs but also positions St. Kitts and Nevis as a leader in sustainable development and environmental stewardship within the Caribbean region.
The passage of the Public Parks Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2024, exemplifies the Dr. Terrance Drew administration’s dedication to creating inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable community spaces, further enriching the lives of citizens and bolstering national pride.
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