KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller today pledged to work with the Government to build Jamaica.

“As the Opposition, we have a constitutional duty to scrutinise the Government on behalf of the people,” Simpson Miller said during her address in Parliament. “We will not fail in performing that duty. We will be strong; we will be vigilant; we will be firm.”

The Opposition leader also said her team will provide “constructive criticisms”.

“We commit to being a vibrant Opposition, holding the Government acceptable at all times,” she said. “However, we will do so in a manner that contributes to the building of Jamaica.”

She explained that Jamaica cannot be built by the Government alone, or by the Opposition alone. Instead, Jamaica “must be built by us working together”.

“We all have a responsibility to operate at the highest standards of decency, decorum and integrity, that is the commitment of the Opposition.”

In her address, Simpson Miller jokingly warned the Government not to get comfortable on the side of the aisle that they now sit.

After congratulating Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his team on their victory in the February 25 General Election, Simpson Miller said: “… Let me advise my friend, and all the members over there, do not get very comfortable on that side.

“I know that they are usually more comfortable on this side.”

Members of Parliament and senators were today sworn in at Gordon House as Parliament reconvened.