Neil Rowe back as Deputy Speaker of the House

Member of Parliament for St Michael North West, Neil Rowe, has been reappointed Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, following the resignation of St Thomas MP Cynthia Forde.

The announcement was made during Tuesday’s sitting by Speaker of the House, Arthur Holder. He confirmed that Forde had tendered her resignation from the post with immediate effect.

In the veteran parliamentarian’s resignation letter, read by Holder, Forde said she had “enjoyed the opportunity to be given the privilege to serve in such a distinguished position”.

She thanked fellow MPs for their patience, guidance, and support.

“It was indeed an honour to serve,” Forde added.

After the letter was read in the House, Leader of Government Business and Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw formally nominated Rowe to serve as deputy speaker.

He had been replaced by Forde in January 2024 after being charged with rape. He was acquitted in May this year. (SB)