Press Releases

The National Assembly, cognizant of the importance and essential value of the Information Communication Technology (ICT), in the efficient and effective delivery of its work, today, launched a revamped, upgraded parliamentary website www.parliament.gov.gy in the Parliament Chamber, Public Buildings.

Recognising significant shortfalls in the previous website, a contract was signed on 1st November, 2013 to upgrade the website using consultant Cirrus Multi-media with funding provided by the UNDP through its programme “Enhanced Public Trust Security and Inclusion Project 2”.   A Planning Committee comprising, of all Heads of Department and chaired by the Clerk of the National Assembly, was established to monitor the project.  Several meetings of the Committee were held.

The website is also user-friendly and will provide relevant and vital information in a timely manner, to Members of Parliament, Members of staff, Members of the media, students and the general public on the major aspects of the functions and various activities of the National Assembly of the Parliament of Guyana. It includes a media center, a searchable database of committee reports, records, hearings, votes and other parliamentary documents pertaining to the current Parliament; searchable database of legislative acts, bills, documents laid, resolutions,  motions, notice papers, questions and answers, minutes of the National Assembly, subsidiary legislation, petitions and other parliamentary documents.

There is also a  special section on budget and financial legislation; an overview of the composition and functions of the National Assembly,  including a description of the specific role of the parliamentary chamber and  non-plenary bodies (committees, commissions, etc); a  "Guided tour"(virtual tour) of the Parliamentary building; practical information on access to the Parliamentary building, and  Parliamentary library; Pictures and contact information for all Members of Parliament; Summary or complete records of parliamentary debates; Audio and video Web telecasting of Parliamentary sittings.
Speaking at the simple launching ceremony, House Speaker, Raphael Trotman, said that “the main aim of the website is provide, efficient, effective, and timely ICT based information services for members and staff and to make the work of the National Assembly and Parliament Office more transparent.”

He also noted that the website can be seen as an essential tool to both foster and enhance a two way communication between the Parliament and the people of Guyana. Effective communication with citizens builds confidence in Parliament. Creating an environment where citizens have trust in their elected officials promotes a shared commitment to democratic values.
Speaker Trotman also noted that the site is a work in progress and feedback from Members of Parliament, members of staff and the general public is welcomed. “We appreciate critical analysis on what we do, in order to improve what we are doing,” he said. Members of the public can send their comments or suggestions to the email: info@parliament.gov.gy.

Resident Representative of the UNDP, Ms Khadijah Musa, underscored the importance of Parliaments having the necessary tools to give the press and members of the public full access to parliamentary information. She further commended the National Assembly in reaching this important milestone.

Members of Parliament including Government Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira, Mr. Manzoor Nadir, Mr. Moses Nagamootoo and Mrs. Cathy Hughes were all present and lauded the efforts made by all parties involved in making the establishment of the new website possible. Those present were also treated to a guided tour by the Consultant.