Estimates begin in new location

“WE are ready to do the people’s business.”

Speaker of the House, His Honour Arthur Holder, gave this assurance on the steps of the Worthing Corporate Centre yesterday.

Holder spoke briefly to the media, indicating that he was grateful to the persons who worked assiduously, above and beyond the call of duty, to ensure the Parliament of Barbados was ready.

He noted that he is unable to say how long Parliament will be held at the Worthing, Christ Church location. In response to a question from the media about the cause of the move, Holder responded that there are environmental problems. He added that the move to the new location will ensure that the issue is fixed and they will be able to return to the original location.

“We are here temporarily; (this is) to give the buildings enough time for consultation and quotation, special dimensions and ensure all the problems are remedied,” said Holder.

Leader of the Opposition, Bishop Joseph Atherley, said that the change is necessary and he commended the efforts of those involved in the move.

All Members of Parliament were present for the Estimates yesterday.

Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Trade, Sandra Husbands, told the media that she believes the environment will be a lot better than what her colleagues have been experiencing. She added that it will lend itself to all the liberations and create comfort and convenience to do their business.

She said that it is a good move, which will allow the Government to finally deal with the Parliament buildings and make sure those historic buildings are preserved and at the same time, create a healthy environment.

Smooth transition

From 9 a.m. yesterday, the Worthing Corporate Centre was abuzz with activity as private security and members of the Royal Barbados Police Force (RBPF) secured the temporary facilities put in place for Parliament proceedings.

Parliament staff members and Members of Parliament started to arrive as early as 9 a.m. with the Opposition Leader Bishop Atherley and Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley entering the new Parliament at 9:52 a.m. and 10:01 a.m. respectively. One observation made by members of the media was the absence of the national flag on the exterior of the new Parliament. (KB)