Mitchell: I was afraid when I saw Lee's 'flu-like' symptoms

Noting the precautions one should take if experiencing flu-like symptoms, Government Senator Randall Mitchell questioned whether members of the Opposition understood the gravity of the covid19 pandemic as he recalled seeing Pointe-a-Pierre MP David Lee with such symptoms in Parliament.

Mitchell, during his contribution on a private motion to increase the speaking time of senators, questioned whether members of the opposition were responsible enough to obey public health guidelines and stay at home if they had flu-like symptoms.

During a no-confidence motion against Energy Minister Franklin Khan in February, Lee was seen sniffling as he delivered his remarks.

Responding to arguments that senators would be able to regulate their own speaking time without the mandate from the government, Mitchell cited Lee's sniffles, saying if members were not responsible enough to stay at home if unwell, it was unlikely they could control their speaking time.

"I looked on in absolute fright and it was not because he (Lee) said anything significant, but Madam President, the member for Pointe-a-Pierre, while piloting the motion, exhibited signs of full-blown flu-like symptoms – every five minutes he had to wipe his nose.

"Members even raised objections on that point,. People on YouTube were questioning why he came to the Parliament.

"But Senator Mark said, 'We is big man and big woman in here,' and asking for self-regulation when that member did not self- regulate and did not stay home."

During his contribution, Opposition Senator Damian Lyder questioned whether the reduction in speaking time was necessary, as no one in the Parliament was infected with the disease, but Mitchell contended this was due directly to the precautions taken by the government.

"That is why Senator Lyder can ask that question now. It's because of the mechanisms, limitations put in place so you are welcome."

He also said the decision to reduce speaking time of parliamentarians was not new, as all public health guidelines have been available to the public over the past year.