Leader of Government Business in the Senate Shenella Govia on Wednesday welcomed newly appointed senators to the Upper House while praising the growing presence of women and young people in Parliament.

Speaking during the ceremonial opening of the Senate following the April 30 general election, Govia congratulated Alincia Williams-Grant and Philip Shoul on their re-election to lead the chamber.

“I know that you’re more than capable to lead this honorable house,” Govia said as she addressed Williams-Grant.

Govia also highlighted the number of women serving on the government benches and described the Senate as “an institution of empowerment and an institution of opportunity.”

“How refreshing it is specifically to see five of us on this side as women,” she said.

The government senator also praised the inclusion of younger members in Parliament and pointed to several former senators who have since advanced to the House of Representatives.

“We have seen it from the last Senate … and now they are in the lower house. This is the type of institution that the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party continues to build,” Govia said.

She welcomed opposition senators to the chamber and expressed hope for productive debates during the new parliamentary term.

“We look forward to a very interesting debate in this house,” Govia said. “May our discussions be very fruitful.”

Govia also thanked Prime Minister Gaston Browne for the confidence placed in government senators and said she looked forward to continuing to serve as Leader of Government Business in the Senate.