Select committees are a vital part of parliamentary democracy, but their spelling may pose a challenge to some. In IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet), the word is spelled /səˈlɛkt kəˈmɪtiz/. The stressed syllables are indicated by the apostrophe (səˈlɛkt), and the schwa sound (ə) is used for unstressed syllables. The k sound is doubled because the first syllable ends in a vowel, and the second syllable begins with a consonant sound. With this understanding, correctly spelling select committees should no longer be an obstacle.
Select committees are specialized and temporary committees established by legislative bodies, such as parliaments or congresses, to inquire into and investigate specific issues or matters of public importance. Comprised of a small group of legislators chosen from different political parties or factions, these committees are usually formed through a selection process, hence the name "select committee."
The purpose of select committees is to provide a thorough examination of particular issues, often ones that may not be adequately covered by the regular legislative processes. They typically possess an investigative function, allowing them to gather evidence, solicit expert opinions, and conduct hearings or interviews with relevant individuals. Select committees have the power to call witnesses, request documents, and compel individuals or organizations to provide information, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
The scope of select committees varies greatly depending on the legislative body and the specific issue at hand. They can range from small ad hoc committees charged with a single task to permanent committees established to oversee specific departments or policy areas. Select committees often produce reports outlining their findings and recommendations, which may guide further legislation or government actions.
Due to their specialized nature, select committees provide an opportunity for legislators with diverse expertise and perspectives to collaborate and evaluate matters independently from partisan politics. Select committees play a crucial role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective governance, enhancing the democratic functioning of legislative bodies and promoting informed decision-making for the benefit of the public.
The word "select committees" derives from the combination of two words: "select" and "committees".
1. Select: The word "select" comes from the Latin term "selectus", the past participle of "seligere", which means "to choose". It entered the English language in the late 15th century, originally denoting the act of choosing carefully or discerningly.
2. Committees: The word "committee" is derived from the Latin term "committere", which means "to entrust". It originated in the mid-15th century and referred to a group of people appointed or entrusted with a specific task or responsibility.
When used together, "select committees" refers to specially chosen or carefully assembled groups of individuals who are entrusted to carry out a particular task or investigate a specific matter.