The Speaker granted leave of absence to the Member of Parliament for Tobago East, Chagnauas West, Pointe-a-Pierre and Mayaro from today’s Sitting. The Speaker then announced the passing of Dr. Joseph Laquis, former MP for Diego Martin Central. Tributes were then paid to Dr. Laquis in the House following which the House observed a minute of silence as a mark of respect.

Mr. Symon de Nobriga, MP [Opposition Member]

Hon. Dr. Lackram Bodoe, MP [Minister of Health]

Hon. Bridgid Annisette-George [Speaker of the House]

Three Papers were laid. See the Order Paper.

One Report was presented. See the Order Paper.

Four questions on notice were listed for oral answer. See the Order Paper.

The Prime Minister made a statement pertaining to public allegations that the state is using software to spy on individuals in Trinidad and Tobago.

Dr. Keith Rowley, MP [Government Member]

The Member for Couva North moved a Private Motion asking the House to prevent food insufficiency and starvation in the nation. Six Members made contributions before debate on the Motion was suspended.

Sen. the Hon. Ravi Ratiram [Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries]

Sen. the Hon. Kazim Hosein [Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries]

Hon. Vandana Mohit, MP [Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services]

Sen. the Hon. Nigel de Freitas [President of the Senate]

Hon. Dr. Rishad Seecheran, MP [Minister in the Ministry of Health]

Sen. the Hon. Avinash Singh [Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries]

Dr. Rai Ragbir, MP [Opposition Member]

At the next Sitting, debate was expected to continue on the Motion to adopt the Report of the Joint Select Committee on the Cannabis Control Bill, 2020. The Sitting ended at 6:00 p.m.