The Opposition is calling for the Parliament to revert to its regular speaking times, essentially doing away with the COVID-19 measures which permits each Member to have a maximum of 20 minutes for speeches.

The measure came into effect in mid-April, when government moved a Motion to put a lid on the amount of time members gather for a Sitting. This was done in keeping with social distancing guidelines and to reduce the chance of virus exposure for those gathered in the Chamber.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Opposition Chief Whip, Dr. David Lee, said with most places now returning to  regular operations, he believes the Parliament should also revert and extend the speaking time for Members.

“In the best interest of protecting democracy, as well as in the best interest of effectively ventilating the views and ideas of our population as we emerge out of these uncertain times, our Parliamentary speaking time should be reverted to those initially stipulated by Standing Order 45(1),” he said.

Dr. Lee added that the request has become relevant , especially given the “important pieces of legislation” and meetings for approval, such as the report on the Standing Finance Committee which is set to take place this Friday.

The Opposition MP said the extension of time alotted to each speaker will facilitate “proper debate to ascertain true accountability in the public’s interest”.