NASSAU, The Bahamas — After reading the Proclamation by Former Governor General, Sir Cornelius A. Smith, of 12th August, announcing the Proroguing of Parliament — President of the Senate, the Hon. Lashell Adderley addressed the Senate body during the official Opening of the New Session of Parliament, October 4, 2023.
She commenced her address by paying tribute to the late Minister of Social Services and Leader of Government Business in the House of Assembly, Hon. Obadiah Wilchcombe. The President also expressed condolences to the Minister of Housing and Urban Renewal, Hon. Keith Bell on the recent passing of his spouse, Mrs. Clara Bell.
The President gave an overview of some of the achievements of the Senate during the past session, emphasizing the ‘impressive’ feat of passing over 100 bills enacted into law.
She also urged the Senators to continue to pursue the highest levels of excellence in the carriage of their duties and to always remain relevant in debates.
She said one notable achievement during this session was that the occasion also marked the making of history in the country, given this was the first time ever that three females were presiding over the proceedings. Those included herself as President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Assembly Hon. Patricia Deveaux, and the Governor General, Her Excellency the Most Hon. Cynthia A. Pratt. She said that this pointed to the government’s agenda of empowering females and advancing gender equality in the country.
She wrapped up her address by saying that despite the many challenges that Parliamentarians may face, they must continue to press on for the greater good of the country.
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