The public now has an opportunity to submit written suggestions and recommendations on Barbados’ parliamentary system, process and procedures, and all other related laws and matters.
The Parliamentary Reform Commission has advised that written submissions, which must be no more than five to seven pages, should be sent to Secretary of the Commission, Pedro Eastmond, by Friday, September 29. They may be emailed to PRC@barbadosparliament.com, or sent to Mr. Pedro Eastmond, Secretary, Parliamentary Reform Commission, Parliament Buildings, Bridgetown.
Several meetings will be held to allow members of the public to present their views in person or online. The first discussion will be on Thursday, August 17, at the Barbados Workers’ Union Headquarters, Solidarity House, St. Michael, beginning at 7:00 p.m. The times and venues for the other public consultations will be announced shortly.
Persons who desire to supplement their written submissions with an oral presentation should notify the Commission by writing or emailing the Secretary, at least seven days in advance of a meeting.
The Parliamentary Reform Commission was established by the President of Barbados on May 8, this year. The Commission is mandated to make recommendations for the strengthening of Parliament and its functions, and must present its report to the President by November 8, 2023.
The Terms of Reference of the Parliamentary Reform Commission are:
(a) to examine, consider and inquire into the parliamentary system, process and procedures, and all other related laws and matters with a view to:
(i) making recommendations for the strengthening of Parliament and its functions, and
(ii) enlarging and strengthening democracy to reflect the wishes of the people of Barbados, as they seek to take full ownership of national institutions and processes in the construction of a culturally relevant, inclusive and modern nation-state that reflects Barbados’ republican status.
(b) report in writing, after due examination, study and inquiry, giving the commissioners’ opinions and making recommendations for the reformation of the Parliament of Barbados that, in the Commissioners’ opinions, are necessary and desirable and would meet the circumstances of Barbados as a parliamentary republic, as well as promote the good governance of the nation.