by Linda Straker
- Dr Mitchell expressed concerns about unpalatable conduct from members serving as Government ministers
- Dr Mitchell looks forward to future parliamentary proceedings after frank exchange with House Speaker
- First session of 11th Parliament prorogued on 4 September
Opposition Leader Dr Keith Mitchell described his 6 September 2023 meeting with House Speaker Leo Cato as frank and useful in the interest of Opposition Members who have expressed concerns about unpalatable conduct from members serving as Government ministers.
“We had what I consider was a useful and frank exchange, so I look forward to the future parliamentary proceedings,” Dr Mitchell said when asked to provide an update on the meeting. He was reserved about any promise or assurance from Cato, who was nominated and accepted to the post in August 2022 during the ceremonial opening of the 11th Parliament.
During a news conference on Tuesday, 5 September 2023, Dr Mitchell announced that he would be meeting with the Speaker to discuss several concerns and observations of Opposition Members.
“I am worried about the Parliament, its construct and what is happening at this time,” he said during a news conference. Among his concerns were the lack of or inadequate answers to questions submitted to the government side from members of the opposition.
The Opposition Leader also highlighted the heckling of Opposition Members while they are on the floor of the Parliament contributing to a debate, offering personal explanations and speaking on the adjournment. Members on the government side have told Opposition Members to “shut up” and “sit down” while they are on the floor.
Grenada’s Houses of Parliament are currently prorogued or on recess. The first session of the 11th Parliament was prorogued on 4 September. A date is yet to be announced for the ceremonial opening of the second session of the 11th Parliament.
Kieth should be ashamed of himself. He is arrogant that he cannot see his failings
It must be pretty hard being the opposition at this time as it been some time since the said gentleman had to deal with being on that side.
Not an easy place to be after being the main person at the top for so long….it must hurt tremendously.
I for one would have thank god for my time at that level and hand over the leadership to a younger member of the party and work with them to get back to the top .