Community Affairs and Sport Minister Dale Butler was interrupted toward the end of his contribution in the House of Assembly on Friday morning during a fire drill.

Fire marshals and MPs Nelson Bascome and Ottiwell Simmons were quick in getting members of the House down the stairs and out of the building and were commended for their efforts once the session resumed less than 20 minutes later.

?In an old building the need for safety is always important, so it?s about time,? Shadow Transport Minister Jamahl Simmons said of the incident.

Deputy Speaker Jennifer Smith has recently undergone eye surgery and had to be helped down the stairs and out of the building by fellow MPs yesterday.

Lt. Dana Lovell from the Bermuda Fire Department commended parliamentarians on their performance, saying the drill went very well and was within the time limits.