It IS FINISHED!

The Final Report of the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC), has been presented to this country’s Parliament.

CRC Chairman Parnell Campbell Q.C. handed over the historic document during the first sitting of this country’s Parliament for the New Year which was convened Monday. He was accompanied to the day’s sitting of the House by most of the members of the bi-partisan CRC. {{more}}

And commenting afterward on the progress of the Constitutional Review Commission thus far, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves thanked the Opposition for co-operating with the government “in a non-partisan way with the process.” He commented that what had been accomplished thus far was “even more advanced than the Greek City State” where women were not permitted to participate.”

Dr. Gonsalves said that it was the second time for the week that he felt proud to be Prime Minister of this country. The other occasion, he said, was when students were honoured for their CXC results. “I am filled with joy,” the Prime Minister declared.

The Prime Minister also gave the assurance that general elections will be held before the proposed referendum on the new constitution. This, he said, was so that the process would not be tainted with partisan politics.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace, told Parliament that there is nothing more important than the Constitution. Eustace, president of the New Democratic Party (NDP), was making his contribution following the presentation of the Final Report of the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) Monday.

Eustace said he applauded the CRC for its efforts, despite the fact that it did not always have “the levels of attendance.” He also praised the CRC for doing its work devoid of partisan politics.

While CRC Chairman Campbell presented the Final Report, he also made a request for an extension to the mandate of the Commission to allow it to better complete its work.

Both the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader agreed with the request made. This occasioned some on-the-spot knocking of heads, and for brief moments both leaders consulted even while the proceedings continued.

By the end of the day, they had drafted a resolution which was presented to the House and which received full bi-partisan support. It means that the CRC has now been given a six-month extension to its mandate.