Speaker of the House Reveals Health Issues

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Speaker of the House of Assembly Sir Gerald Watt

House Speaker Sir Gerald Watt, QC, made a heartfelt apology to the House of Representatives for his late arrival, citing health issues as the reason for his delay.

In his statement, he revealed that he has been experiencing a debilitating condition known as a frozen shoulder in both arms.

This condition has severely impacted his daily life, making simple tasks like sleeping and dressing extremely challenging for him.

Watt expressed deep regret for any inconvenience caused by his health condition and requested that members of the House show understanding and support during this challenging time.

To manage his condition, Watt has had to make significant adjustments to his daily routine, requiring more time to prepare for the day ahead.

He further mentioned that he has consulted with the Attorney General to prioritize crucial parliamentary matters for discussion, deviating from the usual agenda to accommodate his health needs.

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This decision highlights the personal challenges faced by public figures and the need for flexibility in managing parliamentary proceedings.

At the age of 85, Watt’s announcement underscores the importance of addressing health issues faced by public officeholders and ensuring that parliamentary proceedings are conducted with appropriate accommodation for those with health challenges.

Members of the House expressed their support for Watt and assured him of their understanding during this difficult time.

The gesture demonstrates the importance of compassion and empathy in public service, particularly when faced with challenging personal circumstances.

This story was first published by Antigua News on February 22, 2024: antigua.news/2024/02/22/speaker-of-the-house-reveals-health-issues. © 2024 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Comments (2)

  • Donna February 22, 2024, 5:54 PM

    He needs to resign as speaker of the house and spend more time with his family, and taking care of his health. Another thing, he needs to spend quality time in God Word and having a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. He has lived his early life and he needs now to spend time knowing his creator through Christ Jesus.
    Reply
  • Augustine Blaize February 26, 2024, 11:35 AM

    The Speaker of the House is TWICE RETIRED, AGE WISE Based on AREAS He has worked in the PUBLIC SECTOR ……… 60 – 65 Years And 75 Years (ABEC)! Why are WE Tolerating THIS NONSENSE from A SPEAKER WHO SHOULD HAVE RETIRED YEARS AGO??? Our Parliament MUST NOW Alter the NORMAL MODUS OPERANDI to Accommodate an AILING SPEAKER Who Should have RETIRED Years Ago!!! People of ANU/BAR WAKE UP …….:
    Parliamentarians MUST PUT FORWARD A MOTION ASKING FOR THE RESIGNATION OF Speaker G. Watt.
    If Not we are Sure To Be Entering A CREEPING Dictatorship Administration ….. if We are Not Already in THIS SITUATION…….. Let us ALL sing THIS Hymn (if you know It) ….. Wake Up My People…. Wake Up Give A Shout … Wake up My People …. Know What Life’s About, And … Wake Up to the NEEDS … Of ALL The Ones who Suffer Sorrow……. Wake Up Promise NOW To do Your BEST To Change Tomorrow!!! Wake Up My People Wake Up TAKE A STAND …… STAND FOR WHAT IS RIGHT IN OUR LAND ….. Otherwise We May Be NO MORE……. Let US All MOVE NOW ……. To Do What is RIGHT!!! THE SPEAKER OF THE PEOPLES’ HOUSE Must Be MADE To RETIRE!!! Peace! 🌻😇
    Reply

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