Health

Parliamentarians Debate Mental Health Bill

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Prime Minister Philip Davis says it’s a part of the vision to promote the overall health and well-being of Bahamians.

Published

3 years ago

November 20, 2022

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Prime Minister Philip Davis says it’s a part of the vision to promote the overall health and well-being of Bahamians.

His comments came as he led off debate on the Mental Health Bill in the House of Assembly.

The bill, which will repeal and replace the 1969 act, first tabled in July, puts in place a framework to expand the resources to those most in need and makes it unlawful to discriminate against a person because of their mental health status.

Back in July, Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville said the bill incorporates important matters pertaining to the management of personal and financial affairs as well as the establishment of a Mental Health Services Board and a Mental Health Review Tribunal.

The bill mandates that mental health services be affordable and accessible to people throughout the country, provided in a way that is acceptable to the person seeking those services and improves that person’s capacity to develop and integrate into community life.

Opposition Leader Michael Pintard described the bill as “an important step forward”.