Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says her administration is preparing a sweeping legislative agenda aimed at tackling social issues ranging from substance abuse and gambling to noise pollution and pension reform.
Speaking at a United National Congress (UNC) public meeting, Persad-Bissessar announced plans to raise the legal age for marijuana and gambling to 25 and the legal age for alcohol consumption to 21. She said the proposed changes are part of a broader government strategy to address addiction and reduce the social harm caused by these substances.
“These are not just vices; they are public health and societal concerns,” the prime minister told supporters. “We intend to take firm, responsible action.”
The Prime Minister also committed to introducing legislation to regulate the use of fireworks. The new laws would restrict fireworks to specific days and time periods, a move intended to reduce disruption to residents, pets, and the elderly.
She also took aim at music trucks, which she described as a public nuisance. Upcoming legislation, she said, will introduce a mandatory cut-off time for events using amplified music in public spaces, including trucks. Exceptions would be made for national festivals, but Persad-Bissessar stressed that excessive noise must be brought under control.
“We need a more balanced approach to entertainment and public peace,” she added.