The Speaker granted Leave of Absence to the Member for Diego Martin West (today’s sitting) and the Member for Chaguanas West (19-31 January). The Speaker also welcomed back the Member for St. Augustine.

The Leader of the House laid one paper on behalf of the Minister of Social Development. See the Order Paper for details.

The Minister of Finance presented the First Report (2009 Session) of the Finance Committee of the House of Representatives on proposals for the Supplementation of the 2008 Appropriation.

The Member for Caroni East sought leave to raise as a definite matter of urgent public importance the failure of the Government to implement measures to prevent a breakout of yellow fever. The Speaker ruled that the matter did not qualify under this Standing Order.

The Prime Minister made a statement on Trinidad and Tobago’s hosting of two International Summits in 2009.

The Minister of Finance introduced the Bill and moved that the next stage be taken later in the proceedings. Leave was granted.

The Minister of Finance moved a Motion to adopt the First Report (2009 Session) of the Finance Committee of the House of Representatives. The Leader of the Opposition was first to enter the debate, followed by the Minister of Tourism. A total of ten members made contributions before the Minister concluded the debate. The Motion was then approved.

The Minister of Finance then moved the Second Reading of the accompanying Finance (Supplementary Appropriation)(2008) Bill, 2009. The Bill was later read a third time and passed.

At its next sitting the House will begin debate on a Private Motion by the Member for Princes Town North which asks the House to condemn the Government for its failure to effectively deal with crime. The House adjourned on Saturday January 24, 2009 at 12:50 a.m.