Dr. Nigel Clarke and Ruel Reid Sworn in as Senators
By: November 29, 2013 ,The Key Point:
The Facts
- This brings the total number of Opposition Senators to eight members, the full complement.
- In his remarks, President of the Senate, Floyd Morris, charged both Senators to take their responsibilities seriously.
The Full Story
Businessman, Dr. Nigel Clarke, and Principal of Jamaica College, Ruel Reid, were sworn in as Opposition Senators in the Upper House, on Thursday, November 28, by the Clerk of the Houses of Parliament, Mrs. Heather Cooke.
This brings the total number of Opposition Senators to eight members, the full complement. The two Senators replace Dr. Christopher Tufton and Arthur Williams.
In his remarks, President of the Senate, Floyd Morris, charged both Senators to take their responsibilities seriously.
“Here in the Senate we debate matters rigorously, passionately and, as I always say, respectfully and based on your antecedents, I know that both of you are going to make sterling contributions to the Senate,” Senator Morris said.
For his part, Leader of Government Business in the Senate and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator A.J. Nicholson, welcomed the two new Senators to the Upper House.
“As Leader of Government Business, I take the opportunity to remind them of the oath that they have taken to uphold and to defend the Constitution and Laws of Jamaica. In this Senate, that means that no ruse or plan can be devised to thwart that provision of the oath,” Senator Nicholson said.
“I expect therefore, that as an educator and as a scholar you will understand what that means. So, we welcome you both and you will find that the Senate is a wonderful place to be; we use every moment here as a teachable moment. That is what we try to do,” he added.
Leader of Opposition Business in the Senate, Tom Tavares Finson, also welcomed both Senators to the Upper House.
“You are part of a rigorous organization that is going to require your dedication to the job. Recognize what your purpose here is, to represent the people of Jamaica first and foremost and once you keep that in mind at all times and you are determined not to be distracted by the political aside, your contribution will be recognized,” he noted.
Replying, Senator Reid said it is a privilege and an honour to serve in the Senate, while expressing thanks for all the kind words expressed.
“I take this responsibility very seriously. I’m mindful of where we are today as a nation and what we must do to improve the lives of our people, so against this background I look forward to fully engage in all the activities and debates of this chamber,” Mr. Reid said.
For his part, Senator Clarke also expressed appreciation for the warm words of welcome given to him.
“It is indeed an honour and a privilege to serve in this House. I pledge to abide by the rules and regulations of the Senate and to serve at all times in the best interest of all Jamaicans,” he said.