The Vice-President of the Senate (Sen. George Hadeed) granted leave of absence to Sen. Subhas Ramkhelawan (out of the country) and Sen. Dr. Adesh Nanan (illness). The oath of allegiance was administered to Mr. Nicholas Galt and Mr. Ryan Spicer to replace Senators Ramkhelawan and Nanan respectively.

The Children’s Community Residences, Foster Homes and Nurseries (Amendment) Bill, 2008, which was passed with amendments in the House of Representatives on Wednesday June 18, 2008 by a vote of 32 for and none against, was read a first time in the Senate. The Bill is in the name of the Minister of Social Development (Hon. Dr. Amery Browne).

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

Debate began on a Private Motion by Senator Wade Mark that asked the Government to take steps to have the Equal Opportunity Legislation operationalized and fully effected in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Senator Mark was followed in the debate by Sen. Dana Seetahal, SC, the Attorney General (Sen. the Hon. Bridgid Annisette George, Sen. Ryan Spicer who made his maiden contribution, Sen. June Melville and Sen. Mohammed Faisal Rahman.

Sen. Wade Mark raised the issue of the challenges of the new system used by the Immigration Division of the Ministry of National Security aimed at eliminating long lines outside of immigration offices. The Minister of National Security (Sen. the Hon. Martin Joseph) responded.

Sen. Wade Mark raised the matter of the failure of the Government to effect changes to the Pensions Act in accordance with agreements signed between the Chief Personnel Officer (CPO) and the various public sector unions. The Minister in the Ministry of Finance (Sen. the Hon. Mariano Browne) responded.

The Senate adjourned to Tuesday July 1, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. On that day debate is expected on the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago (Amendment) Bill, 2008, which is expected to be considered in the House of Representatives on 30 June 2008. Time permitting, debate is expected to continue on the Geneva Conventions Bill, 2008. The Senate adjourned at 6:25 p.m.