Leave of absence was granted to Sen. Nigel Dr Freitas who is out of the country. Ms. Alisha Romano was appointed temporary Senator in his place.

Temporary Senator Ms. Romano took her oath of allegiance.

Four papers were laid in the names of the Minister of Health and the Minister of Finance. See Supplemental Order Paper for details.

Four Reports were presented. See Order Paper for details.

Two urgent questions were posed. See Order Paper for details.

Five questions qualified for oral answer. Question #71 was deferred for two weeks. See Order Paper for details.

Sen. Wade Mark sought leave to move the adjournment of the Senate under Standing Order (16) to discuss a definite matter of urgent public importance namely the failure of the Government to address the continuous collapsing of the sea bridge between Trinidad and Tobago. The President of the Senate was not satisfied that this matter qualified under this Standing Order.

The Leader of Government Business moved a motion to allow an extension of six weeks to the JSC – Gambling (Gaming and Betting) Control Bill, 2016 to complete its work and submit a final report by June 30, 2017. This motion was carried.

Private Members’ Business took precedence at this Sitting. Senator Wade Mark moved a private motion to establish a Joint Select Committee to consider and report within three months on a legislative formula for parliamentary autonomy in Trinidad and Tobago. Debate began on this motion and will conclude at another Sitting.

The Sitting concluded at 6:00 p.m. The Senate adjourned to Thursday May 25, 2017 at 2:30 p.m.