🔊 Speaker criticizes government for lack of response to parliamentary questions

House Speaker Sir Alden McLaughlin expressed his dissatisfaction with the government's failure to respond to most of the questions submitted to the House of Parliament. Despite having ample time to prepare responses, the government only answered two of the 19 questions submitted by opposition members. McLaughlin described this lack of response as "abhorrent to democracy". 🏛

This parliamentary session had been postponed twice, once due to Hurricane Beryl, providing the government with over 28 days to prepare their responses. Despite this extended period, no further answers have been submitted. McLaughlin emphasized the importance of ministers being able to answer questions, as it is a critical part of parliamentary scrutiny. He urged ministers to ensure that answers are submitted, allowing the parliament to fulfill its role as scrutineers of the executive. 📜

The opposition PPM submitted at least 16 questions, covering topics ranging from the delayed opening of the long-term mental health facility to the government's controversial plans for a costly third communications submarine cable. McLaughlin's criticism highlights the importance of government transparency and accountability in a democratic system. 🗂