Several government MPs walked out of the Lower House moments ago, joined by members of the public in the gallery.

They were protesting remarks by Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle, who began delivering a scathing review of Sir Molwyn Joseph, who is retiring from active politics after 38 years.

Pringle said he would not be gracious to Sir Molwyn, the current MP for St. Mary’s North, citing how the veteran politician had treated him in Parliament.

The opposition leader said Sir Molwyn’s tenure was marked by controversy and incompetence.

Members of Parliament on both sides of the political aisle were at the time paying tribute to Joseph, newly installed MP Randy Baltimore, and the late MP Eustace “Teco” Lake.

While Pringle gave a glowing tribute to Lake and briefly welcomed Baltimore, he was not too kind to the senior MP.

Pringle told the Lower House that Sir Molwyn presided over a deteriorating health sector and a constituency in neglect.

At least five MPs joined members of the public in walking out in protest. They returned once Pringle took his seat.

Opposition MP Richard Lewis praised Joseph for his contributions over his 38 years, while Barbuda MP Trevor Walker described Sir Molwyn as one of the best debaters in the Lower House.

Pringle said it was not all positive and urged the House to be honest in its assessment of Joseph.