New laws for Silica City, artificial intelligence needed – President

Members of the Law Reform Commission, Teni Housty, Clarissa Riehl and Deenawatie Panday were Tuesday reappointed to that body.

These individuals were appointed at a ceremony held at the Office of the President in Georgetown.

Other members of the Commission include attorney, Emily Dodson (the commission’s Chairperson) and Former Opposition Member of Parliament, Lenox Shuman.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, speaking directly to the members of the Commission, acknowledged the need for them to continue in this role since law reform is a “meticulous and time-consuming” process.

He, however, urged the commissioners to address emerging needs including new laws that may be required to tackle technological developments including the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and those needed for the development of Guyana’s new city, Silica City.

Silica City, in particular, may require a suite of new legislation. The Guyanese Head of State said the new legislation should be ready by the first quarter of 2025.

“You will know Silica City is designed to be futuristic, innovative, and modern, with a different type of ecosystem and different types of laws must govern living in that city,” Dr. Ali said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ali said the country’s increasing embrace of technology means that AI challenges must also be considered. So he contended that new laws are needed to guarantee the protection of laws and institutions.

The commission was first appointed in August 2021. Collectively, the members’ role is to serve as an advisory body to the state and it can recommend amendments to existing laws, new legislation and the repeal of existing legislation to the Government of Guyana.

Therefore it creates a much-needed review of the country’s old and outdated legislation and ensures that the laws are up to date with changes within society.