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Opposition tables motion to regulate use of sirens, emergency lights
Kaieteur News- A motion calling for immediate action on the use of sirens and flashing red and blue lights by private vehicles has been submitted to the National Assembly by the A Partnership for National Unity Parliamentarian Ganesh Mahipaul.
Opposition tables motion to regulate use of sirens, emergency lights
The motion was tabled last Thursday and seconded by Opposition Chief Whip, Christopher Jones. The motion outlined that the illegal use of sirens and flashing red and blue lights by private individuals and vehicles poses a significant risk to public safety, causes confusion on the roadways, undermines the authority of legitimate emergency vehicles, and may lead to dangerous situations, including accidents and improper prioritization of traffic;
In the document, Mahipaul explained that this illegal use of emergency lights and sirens by private vehicles creates an environment of lawlessness and puts undue pressure on law enforcement agencies, potentially impeding their ability to perform their duties effectively and respond to emergencies promptly.
He pointed out that the use of sirens and flashing red and blue lights on motor vehicles is regulated by law, and such lights are specifically designated for use by emergency vehicles, such as police, fire, and medical service vehicles, to ensure their prompt and safe passage on the roadways. This is in accordance with the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act (Chapter 51:02) of Guyana, clearly stipulates the rules and regulations regarding the use of sirens and lights, prohibiting unauthorized vehicles, including private vehicles, from using sirens and flashing red and blue lights except where expressly authorized by law.
The parliamentarian noted that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is responsible for enforcing traffic laws and ensuring public safety on the roads, and it is within their power to identify, apprehend, and charge individuals who are found violating road traffic laws, including the illegal use of sirens and flashing red and blue lights. He emphasised that “The citizens of Guyana expect a strong and responsible response from the Guyana Police Force to curb these illegal practices and ensure that public safety and order are maintained on the nation’s roads.”
In the resolve clause the motion calls on the National Assembly to call on the Guyana Police Force to take immediate and decisive action in identifying, charging, and prosecuting all individuals and entities found guilty of the illegal use of sirens and flashing red and blue lights, in accordance with the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act (Chapter 51:02);
The Motion also urged that the Guyana Police Force implement enhanced road checks and monitoring measures to deter such illegal activity, and to conduct public awareness campaigns to educate the public on the importance of respecting traffic laws, particularly with respect to the unauthorized use of emergency vehicle lights and sirens. It also called for a report to be presented to the National Assembly on the effectiveness of the measures taken by the Guyana Police Force within three months of the passing of this motion, outlining the number of charges laid, prosecutions carried out, and any challenges faced in enforcing this provision.
Last November, President Irfaan Ali made a strong call to curb the rising misuse of sirens and flashing lights and demanded the immediate removal of these devices from unauthorised vehicles. In response to the escalating issue, President Ali revealed that he has already engaged with Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, about amending laws to introduce fines and the suspension of drivers’ licenses for those caught using unauthorized lights. The government is also targeting the root of the problem, with the President confirming that security companies installing such equipment, as well as retailers selling them, will be closely monitored. “To ensure the law is fully enforced, the security companies—especially those authorized to use such lights—will face strict penalties if they are found abusing them. Their licenses may be revoked, and the equipment will be seized,” President Ali emphasized.
(Opposition tables motion to regulate use of sirens, emergency lights)
- flashing lights, Motion, Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act (Chapter 51:02, National Assembly, sirens
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