News
November 27, 2009
PMC: PM Gonsalves made a promise

The People’s Movement for Change (PMC) is reporting that Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves told them last week that if the referendum failed a new United Labour Party (ULP) government would begin the process again.{{more}}

According to PMC, on November 18, a delegation from the party met with Gonsalves to present three matters for consideration — the postponement of the Referendum, a commitment to reopen the constitution for further input and improvement by the people, whether it is accepted or rejected, and to support initiatives for national reconciliation and goodwill after November 25. 

In response, a statement from PMC General Secretary Jomo Thomas said, the Prime Minister indicated at the meeting that the idea of postponement was impractical and in fact, “an impossibility” at this time.

 “On the second matter of consolidating constitutional reform, the Prime Minister affirmed his Government’s commitment to pursue the shaping of a constitution which corrects any inconsistencies that emerge. He noted that were the referendum to fail, a new ULP administration would begin the process again,” Thomas said.

 “On the final matter of the national reconciliation … he agreed to take on-board any additional proposals.”

PMC said it was unsuccessful in attempts to arrange a similar meeting with Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace.

“However, the Opposition Leader expressed a willingness to meet after the referendum,” Thomas added.