The Vice-President of the Senate granted leave of absence to Sen. Helen Drayton for the period June 17-24, 2008. The Oath of Allegiance was administered to Prof. David Picou, who will replace Sen. Drayton during her absence from Trinidad and Tobago.

The Children’s Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2008, which was passed by special majority (31 for, none against) in the House of Representatives on 13 June 2008, is expected to be read a first time in the Senate. The Bill requires a three-fifths majority in order to be passed. The Bill is in the name of the Minister of Social Development (Hon. Dr. Amery Browne, MP)

Two Papers, one in the name of the Minister of Local Government and the other in the name of the Minister in the Ministry of Finance, were laid. See the Order Paper for details.

Nine Questions qualify for oral answer. One Question (47) was answered by the Minister of Planning, Housing and the Environment (Sen the Hon. Dr. Emily Gaynor Dick-Forde). All other questions were deferred. See the Order Paper for details.

Eight Questions qualify for written answer. See the Order Paper for details.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs (Hon. Paula Gopee-Scoon, MP) moved the second reading of the Geneva Conventions Bill, 2008. Following the Minister some ten Senators made contributions before the debate was suspended.

Senator Wade Mark raised the matter of the failure of the Government to effect the necessary measures to appoint a Solicitor General and the negative impact that this is having on the lives of hundreds of citizens. The Attorney General (Sen. the Hon. Bridgid Annisette-George) responded.

The Senate adjourned to Monday June 23, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. at which time the Senate will consider a Private Motion by Senator Wade Mark that asks the Government to take steps to have the Equal Opportunity Legislation proclaimed and fully effected in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.