‘Good faith’ talks but…

With Parliament’s recent breakdown threatening to deepen divisions between the Government and Opposition, talks to restore order have begun on what Opposition Leader Mark Golding describes as a “good-faith basis”.

But while the parties seek an immediate way forward, Golding says Jamaica should consider constitutional reform that could pave the way for a Speaker appointed from outside Parliament.

Speaking during a People’s National Party (PNP) press conference at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition on Tuesday, Golding said the country needs to examine whether its current system provides sufficient protection against political influence in the office responsible for overseeing parliamentary proceedings.