Princes Town MP Barry Padarath yesterday apologised to Leader of Government Business and Planning and Development Minister Camille Robinson-Regis for calling her a “bush lawyer.”
The drama unfolded in the Lower House during a motion for consideration on the Senate amendments to the Miscellaneous Provisions (Supreme Court of Judicature and Children) Bill.
In his contribution, Padarath raised concerns over clauses eight, 10 and 14 in the bill, saying that “in most parts, it does not reflect the cultural issues of T&T” and there were gaps. He said whenever the Opposition raises concerns about amended clauses, the Government takes offence.
Padarath said he had seen time and time again laws remaining on the statute books with nothing happening.
“There is a pattern that continues to exist where piecemeal, piecemeal, piecemeal is coming before us and then they (Government) run back to the Parliament two to three weeks or two months later to amend, amend and amend. That is what we are doing today.”
For months, Padarath said Government was in the habit of rushing amendments throughout the night, refusing to allow the Opposition to have a proper say and then would take it to the Senate for debate.
“There are loopholes in these amendments. I expect you to stand up and tell us what you are going to do to remedy these loopholes,” Padrath said.
He said he knows Robinson-Regis was very anxious for the House to deal with the clauses.
“I know she is an attorney as well, and maybe, she may be able to provide some support for the member for Laventille West. But Mister Deputy Speaker, well I know you are a bush lawyer member for Arouca/Maloney,” Padarath said, as he chuckled away.
A bush lawyer is a person pretending to have considerable legal knowledge.
A visibly upset Robinson-Regis shot back, telling Padarath he was out of place.
“What is this?” Robinson-Regis asked as she rose from her chair.
Deputy Speaker Osmond Forde intervened, telling Padarath and Robinson-Regis two members cannot be on their feet at the same time.
Padarath eventually apologised, saying he was sorry for his comment.