‘Enough about your grandfather,’ Walwyn tells Premier

A heated exchange erupted in the House of Assembly recently after Sixth District Representative Myron Walwyn interrupted Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley for referencing his grandfather while responding to questions about employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. Walwyn had questioned why the government, despite its $550 million budget for 2026, had not introduced employment opportunities for differently abled adults, pointing to similar initiatives in neighbouring Caribbean countries. He also highlighted the challenges facing families in his district, saying loved ones were desperately seeking employment opportunities for them. Dr Wheatley began his response by highlighting his family’s historical contribution to special education.

“It was in 1972, under my grandfather’s government,” Dr Wheatley stated, referring to the late Chief Minister Dr Willard Wheatley and the establishment of the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre. Walwyn interrupted, objecting to the Premier’s historical account and insisting that he address the question. When challenged to identify the Standing Order supporting his interruption, Walwyn maintained that the Premier should answer without referencing his grandfather. “I don’t want to hear about his grandfather,” Walwyn declared. “He did quite a lot; he shall be remembered,” Premier Wheatley fired back, defending his grandfather’s legacy. “That’s fine, but not tonight. Answer the question,” Walwyn responded. The Premier continued, pointing to the government’s investment in a new $4 million Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre and a draft employment policy intended to improve opportunities for vulnerable groups. Walwyn, however, maintained that those measures did not address his central concern. He charged: “You promised two years ago…