The Government has issued regulations for the recently imposed States of Public Emergency in western parishes amid the concerns voiced by the Parliamentary Opposition and human rights group.

This includes rules and regulations that will guide the states of emergency in the parishes of St. James, Westmoreland, and Hanover. 

The stipulation outlines that a person may be arrested without a warrant, where it is reasonably necessary to prevent them from committing an offence.

This detention, however, must not exceed 7-days. The sentence may be repeated if it is determined that additional time is needed for an investigation.

Additionally, this extension must be granted by authorization of a police officer, not below the rank of Senior Superintendent.

After six weeks without a charge, the detainee should be released or brought before a Parish Court judge.

The regulation also makes room for the establishment of an Emergency Powers Review Tribunal to review cases of detention or restriction.