Reps issue guidelines for Tuesday’s emergency plenary

The House of Representatives on Monday issued precautionary guidelines for the emergency plenary that will hold on Tuesday, in line with the protocol approved by the federal government following the coronavirus pandemic.

According to the guidelines, only House members and staff properly kitted with face masks and have special passes will be allowed access into the National Assembly complex including the House chamber, while the gallery would be closed to journalists.

To comply with the social distancing directive, the sitting arrangement has been altered, with three empty seats between sitting House members.

Offices of House members would remain inaccessible unless individual lawmakers notify the clerk of the House, requesting to use their offices.

Also, members have been barred from approaching the presiding officer or clerk unless absolutely necessary.

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Staff of the National Assembly that would be granted access to the complex for tommorow’s session are medical staff and staff of the directorate of estate, and works as approved by the clerk of the National Assembly to ensure regular supply of electricity including uninterrupted switch to generating set as may be necessary.

Others include essential staff, apart from secretaries as may be approved by the clerk of the House of Representatives.

Lastly, only two members each of the electronic and print journalists respectively, covering the House would be allowed to access the National Assembly complex and cover the proceedings.

However, the four journalists would be selected by the chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, and the director of information of the National Assembly.