Bahrain - Parliament has outlined its priorities for the coming months, with tighter restrictions on social media among several bills up for review by MPs.

They also include an amendment that would make it easier for parliament to question government ministers, as well as another that would expand community service schemes for convicted criminals.

The National Assembly is now on a five-month summer recess, but the heads of parliament’s five committees yesterday held a Press conference in which they pledged to push ahead with legislative work.

It follows parliament chairwoman Fouzia Zainal this week instructing committee members to continue to hold meetings, even if the chamber does not resume voting until October.

Foreign affairs, defence and national security committee chairman Mohammed Al Sissi revealed that misuse of social media was being addressed as a priority.

“Misuse of social media has reached unprecedented levels,” he said.

“There has to be tougher legislation to combat such irresponsible behaviour.

“The committee is looking at the 2014 Cybercrime Law and the 2006 Anti-Terrorism and Community Protection Law at the same time to bring punishments in line, as well as broaden definitions.

“Freedom of expression and speech will continue being protected as always – whatever amendments we make with concerned ministries and government establishments will not affect that.

“But even with the amendments, advancements in social media mean regular updates to policies and existing laws have to be flexible to allow executive intervention when necessary.”

Legislative and legal affairs committee chairman Dr Hisham Al Asheeri said a key focus was making it easier for MPs to question government ministers.

He added that tougher rules for MPs could also be adopted.

“There are other issues related to lifting immunity (of MPs) and revoking (parliament) memberships that we will also address, as more discipline and punctuality is being sought,” he said.

Meanwhile, the financial and economic affairs committee will review plans to restructure social welfare services.

“We will look into possible distribution of money, cancellation of allowances and merging allowances – ensuring those with the lowest incomes should see their benefits elevated,” said chairman Ali Ishaqi.

Pay rises and allowances for municipal councillors and Capital Trustees Board members are also up for discussion at the public utilities and environment committee.

“We are trying to be fair towards municipal representatives, who are paid too little and don’t get any allowances – except for chairmen, who receive a BD300 car allowance,” said chairman Abdulrazzak Al Hattab.

“This needs to change.”

Committee chairmen, parliament officials and members of the Press at yesterday’s Press conference.

Meanwhile, the services committee has been asked to reconsider its opposition to government plans to encourage the tobacco industry in Bahrain.

The GDN exclusively reported yesterday that authorities wanted to allow the planting and production of tobacco, as well as the commercial production of alternative nicotine substances – such as vape juice.

Authorities have already drafted legislation that would enable tobacco companies to set up commercial operations here, but are already facing objections from parliament.

Objections

“Business-wise the idea is excellent and would create jobs, but it would also cause deaths,” said services committee chairman Ammar Qambar.

“Planting tobacco would kill the environment and soil, according to experts. Shifting to agriculture is more beneficial.

“We are open to debate, but my fellow committee members are not convinced by the Health Ministry’s arguments.”

 

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