The Grenada House of Representatives has amended the country's laws to provide for stiffer penalties for companies which breach environmental laws. The Grenada Parliament on Tuesday amended a law that will increase the penalties for large companies undertaking exploration, and breaching the laws of the state. Energy Minister Gregory Bowen in explaining the legislation said the amendments to the 1999 law are to ensure that companies that want to engage in exploration do not present environmental problems, and adhere to the laws of the country. Mr. Bowen says that the penalties are not aimed at individuals or to deter companies from engaging in exploration. The amendments, which had support from both government and opposition members, will see an increase in fines from EC$50,000 to half a million dollars and a prison term not exceeding five years. Reprinted from radioja.com