A NEW legislation to regulate the use of drones is set for debate during Tuesday’s Parliament session.
The proposed law is being presented by five MPs, led by Parliament Speaker Fouzia Zainal, who believe irresponsible use of drones could pose a threat to the country’s security and public privacy.
Anyone found importing, manufacturing, assembling, using and possessing drones could be jailed between a year and five and fined no less than BD2,000 or both.
The punishments may double if any related offence is committed.
Using drone for a terrorist activity could result in jail term of no less than 10 years while fatalities could lead to a death penalty.
MPs will also review amendments to the 2006 Labour Market Regulatory Authority Set-up Law, which would extend waiting time for expats to shift jobs from one year to three.
Transfer
Parliament will debate amendments to the 2010 Civil Service Law to allow Bahrainis in government jobs to open CRs despite objections from the government that it contradicts the nature of civil service.
MPs will also look into forcing companies fully owned by the government to transfer part of their net profits to state coffers. It would target companies listed with the country’s sovereign wealth fund, Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, and the National Oil and Gas Holding Company (NogaHolding).
Meanwhile, MPs are set to approve amendments made by the Shura Council to a new law protecting endangered animals and plants in Bahrain.
Once approved, the Organisational and Monitoring Law for International Trade of Animals and Plants on The Verge of Extinction would be referred to His Majesty King Hamad for ratification.
MPs will also vote on five proposals:
• Promoting all civil servants to higher ranks and posts as part of a normal career progression;
• Exempting charity societies from fees for government services;
• Opening the Sitra Health Centre for 24-hours;
• Exempting Bahrainis living in residential areas from parking meter toll;
• Continuing free electricity and water for Bahraini households until the end of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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