Gender Minister and Chair of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Women’s Caucus, Olivia Grange has condemned Opposition Leader Mark Golding’s remarks on the appointment of Juliet Holness as Speaker of the House of Representatives.

In his contribution to the 2024/2025 budget debate on Tuesday, Golding suggested that the appointment of the prime minister’s wife as Speaker was bad practice as it lacked independence. The statement resulted in MPs from the governing JLP, led by Prime Minister Andrew Holness, walking out of Gordon House.

READ: Gov’t MPs walk out on Golding after criticism of Juliet Holness’ Speaker appointment

Grange, in her capacity as Chair of the JLP’s Women’s Caucus, emphasised Holness’s qualifications and her selection based on the standing orders.

“As a two-term Member of Parliament and a professional of high esteem, Mrs Holness was chosen for her remarkable track record and accomplishments. It is disheartening to witness such a capable and dedicated woman’s achievements being trivialised,” Grange expressed.

Highlighting a broader issue of gender discrimination in politics, Grange called attention to the undermining of women’s achievements.

“The tendency to attribute women’s success to their connections with men, ignoring their professional dedication and sacrifices, must be addressed,” she stated.

At the same time, Grange urged Golding to reflect on his actions, pointing out the need for a change in the narrative around women’s achievements. She noted the bipartisan support for Holness’s appointment, evidenced by Phillip Paulwell, Leader of Opposition Business, seconding her nomination.

She also cited the example of Michael Peart serving as House Speaker while his brother was in Parliament, illustrating the non-issue of family relations in such appointments.

Holness, who is also the MP for East Rural St Andrew, replaced former Speaker Marissa Dalrymple-Philibert who was forced to resign following a damning report from the Integrity Commission.