New security procedures in Parliament
PARLIAMENT yesterday started the introduction of new security procedures, including the barring of visitors from the lobby of the House.
Yesterday, the police told journalists who tried to enter the lobby that it was now a “sterile area” and that they would not be allowed to enter unless specifically requested by members.
Journalists often enter the lobby area to collect documents or to speak to members of the House.
Leader of the House Dr Peter Phillips told the Observer that no instruction had been given for any restrictions to be implemented yesterday, and promised to have the matter investigated.
Clerk to Parliament Shirley Lewis admitted that discussions were taking place with the police on the issue of security in the chamber and its precincts, but that the discussions were not yet concluded and no final decision has been taken.
She said that the parties are to meet at Gordon House this morning to discuss proposed security measures.
At the same time, Leader of Opposition Business Derrick Smith said that he was not involved in the discussions so far but he has been invited to today’s meeting. The meeting is also expected to be attended by Dr Phillips; Speaker of the House Michael Peart and President of the Senate Syringa Marshall-Burnett.
Sources told the Observer that one meeting has already been held between the clerk and the police to discuss security matters. But the newspaper was unable to say what triggered this renewed interest in beefing up security at the House of Representatives. There have been frequent complaints about members of the public entering the lobby, but this was brought under control in recent months.
Security was beefed up on previous occasions when incidents occurred at Gordon House, including a minor overnight explosion some years ago, as well as after a carton of cow’s milk was used to splash the car of Leader of the Opposition Edward Seaga. Since then the surrounding area, the premises and inside Gordon House, including the gallery and the press room, has been flooded with plainclothes and uniformed security as well as the security assigned to the members.
