The diaspora and members of two political parties will get an opportunity to share their views on how to improve the parliamentary system at three upcoming meetings, to be hosted by the Parliamentary Reform Commission (PRC).
A Special Diaspora ‘Zoom-Hall’ Meeting will be held on Sunday, October 22, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Barbados time. To access the meeting, Barbadians living abroad should enter Meeting ID: 867 6163 7896 and Passcode: 918695, or by clicking here.
On Monday, October 30, a town hall meeting will be held at the Democratic Labour Party’s Headquarters, George Street, St. Michael, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The following day, Tuesday, October 31, there will be a session at the Barbados Labour Party’s Headquarters, Roebuck Street, St. Michael, commencing at 7:00 p.m. Persons may join online via the YouTube channel of the Barbados Parliament.
PRC Commissioner, Senator Elizabeth Thompson, stressed the importance of the discussions, and urged members of the diaspora, and the various arms of the political parties to give their views on matters relating to parliamentary reform.
With regard to the diaspora meeting, Senator Thompson stated: “This is an attempt to reach Barbadians all over the world and the technology provides that opportunity. So, we are really encouraging Barbadians to share the link with relatives and friends overseas and encourage them, wherever they live, to participate in the session. In fact, that is why we are starting at midday, to accommodate people in those jurisdictions who are five and six hours ahead.
“We are urging Barbadians of the diaspora to seize this opportunity to have a conversation with us about the reform of Parliament.”
She explained that the two town hall meetings are for the political parties’ executives and their various arms, such as the women’s league, youth arm, and the general membership. She added that both parties have expressed keen interest in participating in the exercise.
The Constitution Reform Commission also held meetings with the political parties and some members of the diaspora.