KINGSTON, Jamaica – Retiring Speaker of the House of Representatives Michael Peart was showered with praises by members of both sides of the Lower House.

Peart is retiring from representational politics, making it the first time in nearly 50 years a member of the Peart family will not sit in the Lower House.

Leader of government business in the House, Phillip Paulwell said Peart represented the best traditions of his office in a fair and even manner.

“He (Peart) also represented his constituency of South Manchester with distinction and has proven to be a fearless Speaker who managed the affairs of Parliament well,” Paulwell said.

Leader of Opposition business, Derrick Smith said in his comments that Peart was an excellent Speaker who developed trust and admiration while sitting in the chair.

For his part Peart thanked the members for their kind comments.

“Thank you all for you kind words. I at no time wanted to be Speaker of the House, preferring instead to spend time with my constituents.

“But I was convinced to do so and did it for 22 years. To all members, good luck in your campaigning and please let us have a peaceful campaign,” Peart said.