–Dr Scotland says in face of Edghill’s unprecedent break with parliamentary tradition
OPPOSITION Member of Parliament Juan Edghill remains suspended from the business of the National Assembly.
This is according to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland, who noted on Monday night, “This is the first time in the history of our Parliament that a member has refused to withdraw from the Chamber on the orders of the Speaker.”
Speaking at a press conference at Parliament, Dr Scotland told the media that as the head of the National Assembly, “The buck stops with the Speaker”, and according to him, he acted in accordance with the Standing Orders.
He recounted that Edghill attempted to ask a question after the time allotted for the agency under review had expired.
The Speaker said the procedures regarding time for consideration for each agency was discussed prior to the sitting, and it was agreed to during a meeting of the Committee of the Whole.
He said that on Monday, he indicated to Edghill that he would not allow further discussion beyond the time that was allotted, and the MP was ordered to take his seat, which he refused to do.
He said Edghill was ruled “out of order”, and he later informed the MP to take no further part in the business of the House for the remainder of the sitting. This was done in accordance with the Standing Orders of the National Assembly.
He said he directed the Sergeant-at-arms to take steps, as required, to enforce his order and he withdrew from the National Assembly while the sitting was suspended for the day.
The Speaker told the media that the Standing Orders existed before his entry into Parliament, and they have been in place for many years. He said all members of the National Assembly have agreed to abide by the Standing Orders.
Dr Scotland noted that he subsequently met with Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo and one Chief Whip, whom he did not identify, to discuss the matter.
When asked under what circumstances can Edghill continue to partake in the business of the National Assembly, the Speaker noted that the MP knows what he has to do.
Today, the consideration of the estimates will continue as normal. “We have to continue with the consideration of the estimates,” the Speaker said, noting that each head of agency has to be examined.
