Senate approves ‘Harassment Bill’

THE Offences Against the Person (Amendment) (Harassment) Bill 2004 was passed in the Senate on Tuesday, and will now be taken to the House of Representatives for debate. The Bill was piloted by National Security Minister Martin Joseph. In wrapping up debate on the Bill, Minister Joseph told the Senate there were many benefits to be derived from the legislation, including the convenience of persons being able to obtain civil and criminal remedies from the court.

He said the Bill also makes provisions for the court to ascertain the psychological and mental state of the offenders, with avenues available for the treatment of such persons. He said the Bill was drafted with “our peculiar societal values and practices in mind, and within the context of the legal system.”