The President of the Senate granted leave of absence to Sen. the Hon. Devant Maharaj, who is out of the country. Ms. Patricia Henry was appointed to temporarily replace Sen. Maharaj during his absence from Trinidad and Tobago.

The Finance (Supplementary Appropriation)(Financial Year 2013) Bill, 2013, which was passed in the House of Representatives on June 13, 2013, was read a first time in the Senate. The Minister of Finance and the Economy sought and obtained leave for the next stage of the Bill to be taken later in the proceedings.

Two Papers were laid. See the Order Paper.

Three questions qualified for oral answer. The Leader of Government Business moved that all three questions be deferred to the next sitting. See the Order Paper.

The Minister of Finance and the Economy moved the second reading of the Finance (Supplementary Appropriation)(Financial Year 2013) Bill, 2013. Sen. Dr. Lester Henry was first to enter the debate, followed by Sen. Subhas Ramkhelawan, the Minister of Planning and Sustainable Development and Sen. Terrence Deyalsingh. 24 Senators made contributions before the Minister of Finance and the Economy rose to conclude. The Bill was then read a third time and passed.

At the next sitting debate is expected on the Insurance Bill, 2013. The sitting ended at 5:38 a.m.