Speaker to discuss frequency of Parliamentary sittings with Parties

Last Updated on Wednesday, 4 May 2016, 15:06 by

House Speaker, Dr. Barton Scotland.

Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Barton Scotland has signaled his intention to consult with the APNU+AFC and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) over the gaps between parliamentary meetings.

Dr Scotland at the 36^th sitting of the Eleventh Parliament on Wednesday made the statement as the house convened.

This sitting of the National Assembly is the first in 8 weeks with the last session being on March 10.

The Speaker said that the 8 week hiatus has left him with enough time to ponder whether the frequency of meeting of the House and Parliamentary Committees is satisfactorily to all sides.

He noted that the 11^th parliament will commemorate its one year anniversary in June hence now would be a suitable time to consider the workings of the House.

“It is therefore my intention to enter into consultation with all two of the parties with intent to meetings both in this House or in Committee,” said Dr Scotland.

PPP Chief Whip Gail Teixeira made it clear that she was not satisfied with the frequency of the meetings.

Repeatedly the Party has complained over the frequency of meetings and Government using its majority to pass Bills in one sitting as opposed to three sittings under normal circumstances.