Building a Better Jamaica

Published: Tuesday | June 1, 2010
Jamaica Gleaner

The Government has criticised the Opposition's objections to today's debate on the anti-crime bills as a "wanton display of hypocrisy and a deliberate intent to frustrate the will of the people" and initiatives to curb crime.

Andrew Holness, leader of government business in the House of Representatives, argued that the bills had been tabled in Parliament since September 9, 2008, and had been subjected to the extensive deliberations of a joint select committee.

"Not only did the Opposition have the opportunity to raise its concerns during those meetings, but its views, along with others, were reflected in the final report of the committee. Still, the opposition members refused to sign the final report."

Holness' rebuke was in response to concerns raised by the Opposition that it needed "adequate and due notice" before debating any of the bills.

But Holness warned in a statement last night: "The Opposition is invited to catch up when they feel they are ready."