Dr. Yaser bin Essa Alnaser, Secretary General of the Cabinet, issued a detailed statement following the meeting.
In response to the continuing acts of terrorism, rioting and vandalism in the Kingdom, the Cabinet praised the initiative taken by the Parliament to hold an extraordinary session of the National Assembly to discuss increasing the punishment provided for in Law 58 (2006) regarding protecting the community from terrorist acts which have been increasing. The most egregious of these acts is the bombing targeting those praying Taraweeh prayers in the Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Mosque in West Riffa; the targeting of policemen whose duty it is to maintain security; and any infringement on the rights of citizens that threatens their lives and properties. The Cabinet praised the supportive response by HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in issuing the Royal Decree 33 (2013) to conduct an extraordinary session of the National Assembly today (Sunday, 28 July 2013).
The Cabinet also praised the role of the Parliament in taking a stand with the government to combat terrorism and was encouraged by their initiative regarding the extraordinary session. They noted it reflects the patriotism and responsibility of the people’s representatives to convey the will of the people; as well as to bring an end to terrorism and systematic violence by obeying the law and preserving security and stability in the Kingdom. The Cabinet stressed that the government prioritizes its commitment to preserve freedoms and public rights ensured by Bahrain’s Constitution and its commitment to international agreements and conventions. They noted that security is everyone’s given right and there is no discrimination in implementing the law; and highlighted that the government is making a clear stand to preserve Bahrain’s achievements by targeting terrorism that threatens civil peace, stability and development. The current situation requires the government to back every effort that supports its steps to ensure safety and stability, and eliminate terrorism and those who stand behind it. The Cabinet expressed its confidence in the recommendations that will be submitted by the National Assembly that will enhance and support the government’s efforts to combat terrorism.
HRH the Prime Minister commissioned the Ministerial Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs to reconsider the Labor Market Regulatory Authority’s fees to make it equivalent to the needs of the training programmes carried out by the Labor Fund, as well as the support the government gives to institutions and commercial companies, especially small and medium businesses.
In dedication to the social partnership and mutual responsibilities in preserving law and stability through supporting the police force while they’re on duty (including civil protection, public safety, prevention and rescue, evacuation and shelter, traffic services and community policing, etc.) the Cabinet approved the draft law bill on public security volunteers and referred it to the Legislative authority.
After studying the memorandum submitted by the Ministry of Finance regarding the authorized capital for Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding, the Cabinet assigned the Ministerial Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs to reconsider the laws relating to its establishment contract and main framework for re-evaluation of achievements, restructuring and consideration of other alternatives.
The Cabinet approved the establishment of a Seismological Station in Bahrain and commissioned the Ministerial Committee for Services and Infrastructure to determine the best location for it.
In response to the report submitted by the Minister of Health with the results of the Ministry’s full scan of imported processed meat being sold in the market and restaurants, the Cabinet instructed the Ministry of Health to increase its control on processed meat in local markets and fast food restaurants to ensure food safety and consumer protection,
The Cabinet stressed the government’s support for the work of the Municipal Councils in order to upgrade municipal work in various fields as a main element of continuous development. In this regard, the Cabinet discussed a memorandum submitted by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Urban Planning detailing the decisions and recommendations submitted by the Municipal Councils during their third session. These total 377 decisions and recommendations (84% of which have been agreed upon). The memorandum also noted planning interests were the priority of the Municipal Council with 30% of the decisions and recommendations related to urban planning, while applications to own real estate for public interest amounted to 24%; 19% for improving municipal work; and 12% for permits requests.
The Cabinet approved and referred to the Legislative authority a draft law bill to ratify the convention between the Government of Bahrain and Government of Canada on exchange of information in taxation matters that was signed in Ottawa, Canada on July 4, 2013.
The Cabinet approved the draft decision to restructure the National Committee for Childhood headed by the Minister of Social Development and representatives from various ministries and entities, as well as representatives of civil society.
The Cabinet referred to the Ministerial Committee for Legal Affairs a Memorandum of Understanding between UNESCO’s Institute of Technology in Education in Moscow and UNESCO’s Regional Center for Information Technology and Communications in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
The Cabinet approved the Kingdom of Bahrain hosting the 100th session for the Executive Council for the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALESCO) period November 26-28, 2013.
The Cabinet referred to the Legislative authorities a draft law bill — including a memorandum with the government’s opinion — to amend articles in the law regarding legal punishment issued by the Decree 15 (1976).