Human Rights Commissioners now have greater powers to investigate discrimination after Senators yesterday passed a Human Rights Amendment which now includes discrimination against women with children, pregnant women, a wider definition of disabilities, and the replacement of ancestry with ethnic or national origins.

From now on the act will refer to religion or belief as being protected and not religious beliefs as was formerly the case.

Nor will people with criminal convictions face discrimination, except for valid reasons relevant to the conviction, and a complainant will no longer have to prove continual sexual harassment -- as little as one incident now qualifies.

And the Human Rights Act will bind Government and the commission under rules of confidentiality and not secrecy.

The act was introduced by Government Senator Michael Scott who said that as people, everyone is entitled to "fundamental and inalienable'' rights.

"Dignity and equal and inalienable rights,'' he explained, "is the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in our world.

"Human rights laws are intended to ensure fair treatment in employment, fair treatment in housing, and fair treatment in the disposal of goods, facilities, and services,'' Mr. Scott said.

"The Constitution of Bermuda enshrines the fundamental rights and freedoms of every person whatever his race, place of origin, political opinion, colour, creed or sex.

"This amendment affirms these rights and freedoms, and will make better provision to protect the rights of all members of this community,'' Mr. Scott said.

Opposition Senator Kim Swan welcomed the act but suggested that age discrimination also be included, citing still active people who are forced to retire at age 65.

Sen. Swan said other changes to the act were needed, highlighting discrimination against national origin.

Independent Senator Jeannette Cannonier welcomed the upcoming education campaign planned by Government while Sen. Walwyn Hughes welcomed the changing in wording and perspective from secrecy to confidentiality.