Parliament Chamber gets a major facelift

Tomorrow the Fourth Session of the Eighth Parliament opens, to a resplendent chamber which has received its first major refurbishment since 1990. The Parliament Chamber can now accommodate 50 elected MPs in the Members’ enclosure. Other changes include the upgrading of the sound system, which among other things involves the fitting of new microphones for MPs. The 25-year-old carpet has been replaced and the drab burgundy drapes are gone with new golden brown curtains hanging in their place. There has been some minimal adjustments to the press area to accommodate the increased number of television stations.

Furthermore permanent offices have been provided for the first time to the six Parliament Committees chairmen. And office accommodation has also been given to the deputy Speaker and the Vice President for the first time. The highlight of tomorrow’s ceremonial opening however is expected to be the address of His Excellency George Maxwell Richards at 10 am. The House of Representatives will meet later in the day to debate on the Variation of Appropriation Bill, which must be passed before the presentation of the 2006 Budget. The Senate will meet on Tuesday to debate the Variation of Appropriation Bill. The Budget will be presented on Wednesday.