The Clerk of the Senate read the proclamation declaring the 5th Session of the 8th Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago open.

The President of the Senate announced that the seat of Mr. Knowlson Gift (Minister of Foreign Affairs) was vacant with effect from September 29, 2006. She also announced that Mr. Arnold Piggott was appointed a (Government) Senator with effect from September 29, 2006.

The Immigration (Advance Passenger Information) Bill, 2006 and the National Library and Information System (Amendment) Bill, 2006 were introduced in the Senate in the name of the Minister of National Security and the Minister of Public Administration and Information respectively.

The Senate adjourned to Monday October 16, 2006 at 1:30 p.m. On that occasion debate is expected to begin on the Appropriation Bill. Before adjourning the President of the Senate reminded members about the launch of the Parliament Channel in the rotunda of the Red House following the sitting.