The Speaker indicated that an appropriate letter of condolences will be sent on behalf of the House of Representatives to the family of former Independent Senator John Spence.

Before suspending for tea, the Speaker granted leave of absence to the Member for Lopinot/Bon Air West (March 13-16) and the Member for Arima (today’s sitting).

Six Papers were laid. See the Order Paper.

One Report was presented. See the Order Paper.

One Bill, The Anti-Doping In Sport Bill, 2013, was introduced. See the Order Paper.

Debate continued (from Friday March 8, 2013) on the Defence (Amendment) Bill, 2013. The Minister of Housing, Land and Marine Affairs was first to enter the debate, followed by the Member for Laventille East/Morvant, the Minister of Labour and Small and Micro Enterprise Development, the Member for Port-of-Spain North/St. Ann’s West and the Minister of Tourism. Eleven members made contributions before debate on the Bill was suspended.

At the next sitting, debate is expected to continue on the Defence (Amendment) Bill, 2013.