Opposition Leader had frank and useful exchange with House Speaker

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 11^th 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 11^th 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 11^th Parliament was prorogued on 4 September. A date is yet to be announced for the ceremonial opening of the second session of the 11^th Parliament.