Controversy erupted last week in the House of Assembly of Newfoundland and Labrador, leading to significant repercussions for two Members of the House (MHAs). The situation escalated during a session marked by a heated argument between Energy Minister Lloyd Parrott and Liberal MHA Elvis Loveless.
Incident Overview
The conflict began when Liberal MHA Sarah Stoodley made a provocative remark about Premier Tony Wakeham, describing him as having a “really angry old man face.” This comment triggered an intense exchange between Parrott and Loveless, culminating in both MHAs being stripped of their speaking privileges.
Speaker’s Response
On Monday, House Speaker Paul Lane emphasized the inappropriateness of the incident, labeling it an affront to the integrity of the legislature. He remarked that the focus during the session had strayed away from important issues and instead centered on individual disputes.
Call for Improvement in Decorum
Following the event, Premier Tony Wakeham expressed his desire to convene a meeting with fellow party leaders to address what he termed a “declining level of decorum.” He stated that all members are capable of improving their behavior and interactions within the House.
Reactions from Involved Parties
- Lloyd Parrott acknowledged that emotions ran high during the argument, but both he and Loveless are committed to moving forward collaboratively.
- Elvis Loveless articulated an apology to NDP MHA Sheilagh O’Leary, who felt threatened during the exchange and noted that safety should be paramount in legislative discussions.
Public and Expert Opinions
Laurabel Mba, a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant, was present in the public gallery during the confrontation. She expressed her embarrassment over the behavior exhibited by elected officials. Mba criticized the display as being reminiscent of schoolyard antics and raised concerns about workplace harassment, underlining the poor example it sets for aspiring politicians.
Implications for the Political Culture
Mba remarked that such behavior discourages potential candidates from entering politics, emphasizing the need for respect among all members of the legislature. “You don’t need to like the person sitting across from you, but you do need to respect them,” she stated.
Next Steps
As discussions continue over the future of decorum in the legislature, all eyes will be on the forthcoming meetings among party leaders. Ensuring a respectful environment within the House of Assembly is crucial for maintaining the democratic process and encouraging civic engagement.
