Newly elected and re-elected Members of Parliament participated in a one-day induction yesterday for the first Parliament sitting, which is scheduled to take place next week.

Speaker of Parliament Dr Jiko Luveni told MPs that this was an exciting period for Fiji’s democratic government because Parliament offered a unique opportunity to develop and deepen Fiji’s democratic culture.

She said in the past four years the role of Parliament was expanded to be more people friendly to link up with those who elected the leaders and it had been an inspirational experience.

“Believe me, more and more people now understand that when members of Parliament shout at each other during debates, these are normal parliamentary exchanges and the onus is on the Speaker to keep control,” Dr Luveni said.

“One of the hallmarks of good Speakership is the requirement for a high degree of impartiality in the execution of the duties of the office.”

She clarified the Speaker’s role in Parliament as the representative of the House in its powers, proceedings and dignity.

“The induction programme today is the first of many to building your capacity as newly-elected members of Parliament so that you can function efficiently and effectively in the performance of your constitutional duties.”

The programme was organised by the Parliament Secretariat with technical assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Dr Luveni reiterated the importance of Parliament interaction with members of the public, adding that parliamentarians should rededicate themselves to the true meaning of keeping the doors of Parliament open.

Edited by Epineri Vula

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