Leader of Government Business in the Lower House, Barry Padarath, has criticised the Opposition after a private motion on the country’s water supply failed to proceed in the House of Representatives on Friday.
MP Padarath, the Minister of Public Utilities, said the Government was fully prepared to respond to Arouca/Lopinot MP Marvin Gonzales’ motion and outline its record and plans to improve the national water supply.
However, the motion could not proceed after MP Gonzales failed to say “I beg to move” at the end of his presentation, prompting the Speaker to suspend proceedings for 15 minutes to review the relevant Standing Orders.
MP Padarath said while the Government was disappointed that it did not get the opportunity to respond, it must respect the Speaker’s ruling and the procedures governing Parliament.
“Government Members of Parliament are quite disappointed that the Opposition, through ignorance, incompetence and lack of understanding of our Standing Orders, particularly by a former Minister, experienced Member of Parliament and the Chief Whip who derailed his own Private Motion today at the House of Representatives. The Government was fully prepared to respond and more so demonstrate our track record as well as commitment to improving our national water supply. However, despite our readiness to highlight our track record on what has been done to improve ten years of neglect to our national water supply, the Government must abide and respect the rulings of the Honourable Speaker.”
Mr Padarath accused the Opposition of derailing its own Opposition Business for a second time, claiming that it reflected a lack of understanding of parliamentary procedures.
“It is despicable that for a second time, the Opposition has derailed its own ability to raise Opposition Business. The Government cannot and will not compensate for the Opposition’s irresponsible lack of understanding or regard for parliamentary procedures. This was the exact same approach they took when in government regarding private members business.”
Mr Padarath said the Government would continue to carry out its legislative responsibilities within the Standing Orders and parliamentary principles.
He also criticised the Opposition’s conduct, accusing its members of focusing on internal leadership issues rather than parliamentary business.
“We suggest that the Opposition spend their time more wisely caucusing and learning their Standing Orders instead of fighting each other for leadership.”