MPs face likely lengthy session as hospitals are debated
Parliamentarians could be in for a long night when the state of the Island’s hospitals is debated in the House of Assembly during today’s session.Health Minister Patricia Gordon Pamplin has put forward a take note motion on a review of the Bermuda Hospitals Board completed by consultant Howard Associates earlier this year.The review was made public in May and listed a slew of concerns over standards of care and management at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.Despite making some criticisms, the consultant subsequently came under fire from Ombudsman Arlene Brock who, in her own assessment of the review process, said the company “breezed over the key concerns”. Ms Brock’s review will also be up for discussion during the motion.And Shadow Tourism Minister Wayne Furbert will get an opportunity to raise his concerns over the hiring of consultants. The Progressive Labour Party MP has filed a motion “that this House believes that, as a measure of good governance, all consulting contracts over and above $50,000 should be laid before Parliament within 30 days of signing”.MPs will also debate the Mortgaging of Aircraft and Aircraft Engine Amendment Act, the Public Service Superannuation Amendment Act, and the Government Loans Amendment Act.Deputy Premier Michael Dunkley, who speaks for Government on Home Affairs matters in the House, is expected to provide answers to questions submitted last week by Shadow Home Affairs Minister Walter Roban on proposed electoral reform within the municipalities. Government has announced plans to give Hamilton business owners the vote in Corporation elections.