Eustace calls on GG not to sign Act

Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace, yesterday called on His Excellency the Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne not to sign the Act to amend the Criminal Procedure Code.{{more}}

This, after a first round of protest by the Opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) failed to deter the Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ led administration from passing the Bill to amend the Act last Friday night.

Eustace called the amendment to the Criminal Code and the proposed amendment to the Representation of the People Act (which will be considered on in Parliament on February 8), “two dangererous pieces of legislation.”

“I am calling on the Governor General not to sign the Bill….It can’t become law until it is signed,” said Eustace, adding that Sir Frederick’s act is the final step before the amendment is published in the Gazette and becomes law.

Eustace suggested that if Governor General fails to sign the amendment, the Government may look to remove him.

The Opposition Leader contended that there are many aspects to the Criminal Code which affect the lives of Vincentians and, as such, his Party does not think that the amendment is in the best interest of Vincentians.

“It’s not sufficient just to pass it in the House; you have to take those other two steps before it becomes law,” said Eustace.

Eustace disclosed that it was his intention to send a letter to the Governor General expressing his Party’s position.