ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Independent Senator Jamilla Kirwan is calling for greater psychological support for families affected by fatal accidents, saying lawmakers should recognize that financial compensation alone cannot address the lasting trauma experienced by those left behind.

Speaking during debate on the Fatal Accidents Bill 2026 in the Senate, Kirwan said the proposed legislation provides important financial relief for families, but argued that emotional and mental health support should also be part of the national conversation.

“While I appreciate that grief counseling falls outside the scope of this particular bill, I believe this debate presents an opportunity to recognize an important reality,” Kirwan said. “The sudden loss of a loved one, particularly a parent, a spouse, or a child, can have profound psychological effects on those left behind.”

Kirwan noted that children are often among those most deeply affected by fatal accidents, warning that unresolved grief can have long-term consequences.

“Children especially may struggle to process this trauma and without appropriate grief support… the grief can affect them emotionally, education-wise, and their overall development in years to come,” she told the Senate.

Referring to fatal incidents that have occurred in Antigua and Barbuda, Kirwan said some children have witnessed the deaths of their parents or loved ones firsthand.

“It does not take a psychologist to appreciate that experiences of that nature can have profound and lasting effects on a child’s emotional well-being,” she said. “Trauma can manifest itself in many different ways, and the journey through grief is often long and complex.”

Kirwan made the remarks while supporting the Fatal Accidents Bill, which repeals the country’s 1924 Fatal Accidents Act and introduces a modern framework for compensation where deaths result from wrongful conduct.

Earlier in her contribution, the independent senator also observed that the proposed maximum bereavement payment of $20,000 may lose value over time because of inflation. Citing the recent deaths of both of her parents, she said funeral costs have risen sharply in recent years and suggested lawmakers periodically review the compensation limit to ensure it reflects economic realities.

“Perhaps therefore, consideration can be given to periodically reviewing the maximum bereavement award, so that it continues to reflect economic realities and does not, over time, again become outdated,” Kirwan said.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Independent Senator Urges Greater Psychological Support for Families After Fatal Accidents.