Azwer on ethics and entrances

Alhaj A H M Azwer yesterday said in Parliament that there is a news reports on Page 1 of the ‘Daily News’ titled ‘Ethics and Entrances'. I do not want to read the whole report. So, I quote the relevant portion of it -

“.... The President and the Chief Justice are entitled to use that entrance by virtue of office. However, the CJ let two members of her retinue – lawyers we are told – to use that entrance as well, and it is now being asked what is the moral integrity of what she did? Does her rights as Chief Justice extend to others including hangers-on or faithful retainers as well?.....

The Deputy Speaker

Right now, you have brought that to the notice of the Chair. So, that will be looked into.

Alhaj A H M Azwer

Sir, I have to make my submission.

The Deputy Speaker

Order, please

Alhaj A H M Azwer

Sir, I have to substantiate what I have to say.

The Deputy Speaker

No. You have brought that to the notice of the Chair of the article referred to in the said newspaper. So, I will refer it to the Hon. Speaker and appropriate action will be taken.

Alhaj A H M Azwer

Sir, I have a right to substantiate what I say. They stand accused of affronting the Order issued by the Speaker and thereby undermining the supremacy of Parliament. Even Ministers, Members, Secretary to the President are subjected to the security search.

The Deputy Speaker

All that will be taken into consideration.

Alhaj A H M Azwer

Sir, I rise to a point of Order.

The Deputy Chairman

Azwer, time is tight

Alhaj A H M Azwer

Chairman, Standing Order 137 states, I quote:

“Mr Speaker, shall be responsible for the management of buildings, security arrangements and the general administration of the Chamber.”

Sir, my colleagues and I as Members of Parliament are inundated with telephone calls from judges, magistrates and others who are dispensing justice throughout the island alleging that they are being forced to come to the vicinity of Parliament on the 4th December, 2012 to show solidarity with the Chief Justice who will be appearing before the Select Committee on that date. This is a threat to Parliament. Therefore, I would like to bring it to your notice so that you may report it back to the Speaker and give us a Ruling. All the said vicinity of Parliament must be cordoned off, Sir. They are telling “We cannot sit in judgement, we cannot function.”

The Deputy Chairman

I will bring it to the notice of the Speaker