Leader of the People’s National Movement (PNM) Pennelope Beckles, has called for consultation regarding government’s plan to enact “Stand Your Ground” legislation in Trinidad and Tobago.
Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, Beckles said studies have shown an increase in gun violence since the introduction of the legislation in Florida, which the government has used as its model.
“As it relates to the “Stand Your Ground” legislation, we advise government to be cautious about the implementation of the “Stand Your Ground” legislation…according to a study, and we know this government is using the Florida model, according to a study conducted by the Oxford University, the introduction in 2005 of “Stand Your Ground” laws in Florida have been linked to a 24 per cent increase in homicides and a 31 per cent rise in homicides involving firearms, with the largest proportional increase occurring in the 20-34 age group…
“At this point in time, Florida ranks 22nd in the US for gun homicide and gun assault rates. On average, 3, 038 people die and 6, 358 are injured by gun violence in Florida each year.
“Using the Florida model, which is what this government is using, we would of course want to recommend some consultations with the public before this particular piece of legislation is implemented.
“This “Stand Your Ground” legislation means that, where you talk traditionally about reasonable defence if someone comes into your home, that no longer exists.
“We have to be mindful we are in a scenario where the public is extremely concerned about crime…once you don’t feel safe people are looking, of course, for some solution as it relates to crime. But on the other side of it we have to also say it’s not just the question of legislation, it’s a question of policing, it’s a question of the judicial system. When you think about domestic violence for example, what are some of the consequences, what are some of the social issues? So it’s a multiplicity of factors as a country…we have to look at as it relates to how we deal with the issue of crime.”
Attorney Keith Scotland SC added that the common law sets precedent for the defence of one’s life and property when being attacked, called the castle principle. He added that legislation also can be found in Section 7 of the Summary Offences Act which states that no penalty would arise from anyone acting reasonably in self-defence.
“What we’re saying is that there must be caution when you introduce, carte blanche, laws from other jurisdictions such as Florida.”
“We think that the common law along with the statute give an adequate protection now, for persons who are under attack in their homes.
“Government said they would present a policy on it, we are not aware of that policy, it has not been communicated to the Opposition [or] the country, so we will await that policy.”
Beckles added that Florida legislation also includes public spaces and vehicles, which should also be considered before implementing such in Trinidad and Tobago.
Former minister of rural development and local government Faris Al-Rawi also highlighted that many people may not be owners of the properties where they reside, for example in the case of people who are squatting or people without legal deeds of title.
“What is your ground in Trinidad and Tobago? How do you make sure it isn’t a law for one aspect of our society when all are crying out for it…we must see the policy behind this…it is not a straightforward, simple position.”
Beckles said:
“Education is absolutely critical…you can develop a whole culture where people believe you’re in the ‘wild wild west’, so everybody should have a gun…we have to ask ourselves as a society…what actually is the cause of crime.”
She said if the government “brings good legislation” that they would be willing to support it.
Beckles also expressed concern over government’s intention to procure approximately US$5 billion in financing for the country’s expenses.
“We know that currently the central government total external debt measures is some US$5.6 billion with over $800 million annually required to be sourced to make these debt servicing payments.”
Beckles, said the party officially began operations as of Monday. The development comes following her sole nomination for the position of party leader on Monday.
As a result, the PNM will, on June 29, welcome the Arima MP as the first female political leader in the history of the party. Loop News
