The Deputy Speaker granted leave of absence to the Member for Point Fortin (Nov 4-6), Mayaro (Nov 4-6), Oropouche West (Nov 2-8), Princes Town North (Nov 4-14), St. Joseph (Nov 5-8), Siparia (today) and Caroni East (today).

The Deputy Speaker ruled on the Privilege Matter raised by the Member for Lopinot/Bon Air West on October 30, 2009 that no prima facie case had been made out for referral to the Committee of Privileges.

The Evidence (Amendment) Bill, which was passed in the Senate on November 2, 2009, was read a first time in the House. The Bill is in the name of the Attorney General.

16 Papers were laid. See the Order Paper and Supplemental Order Paper for details.

The Minister of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education presented the Second Interim Report of the Special Select Committee on the Status of Children (Amendment) Bill, 2009.

The Minister of National Security made a statement on the decision by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to conduct a complete review of the National Security sector.

The Minister of Trade and Industry moved the second reading of the Metrology (Amendment) Bill, 2009, which was passed in the Senate on July 7, 2009. Five members made contributions before the Minister rose to wind-up. The Bill was considered in Committee and passed without amendments. It was then read a third time and passed.

The Member for St. Augustine raised as a matter on the adjournment, “the failure of the Government to update the population on the current status both financial and otherwise of the International Financial Centre.” The Minister of Finance responded.

At its next sitting, the House will consider the Evidence (Amendment) Bill, 2009.