Continuous derogatory remarks directed to APNU+AFC female parliamentarians by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Nigel Dharamlall are what prompted Coalition Opposition Members of Parliament (MP) to stage a walkout during the examination of budget estimates this afternoon.
According to the party, the Minister, who was being questioned by a female opposition MP on a specific line item, and while being on the floor, responded to the question by stating “You got to get a dildo, that’s what you looking for”.
Despite this “unacceptable and vicious” comment, the Speaker made no attempt to reprimand or correct the Minister. “This, too, we find unacceptable,” the party noted.
APNU+AFC Member of Parliament, Sherod Duncan speaking in defence of the female MP, exploded soon after, objecting to the many “abusive comments” hurled throughout the day by Minister Dharamlall, stating that this and other comments were totally unacceptable.
Duncan was heard repeating the word “nasty” and failed to stop despite the Speaker’s request. The Speaker then called on the government’s Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira to table a motion to have the MP suspended for four sittings. The motion was subsequently passed and Opposition MPs, including Duncan, exited the dome.
The Committee of Supply continues to examine the estimates without Opposition MPs scrutiny.