Neil Rowe reinstated as Deputy Speaker after Forde resigns

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

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

In Forde’s resignation letter, read by Holder, she 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 while she served as deputy speaker.

Following the reading of the letter, Leader of Government Business and Deputy Prime Minister, Santia Bradshaw, formally nominated Rowe to once again serve as Deputy Speaker.

Rowe had been replaced by Forde in January 2024 after being charged with rape.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