The Vice-President of the Senate granted leave of absence to Sen. Camille Robinson-Regis who is out of the country.

The Vice-President then read a letter from the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago appointing Mr. Fitzgerald Hinds to serve as a Temporary Senator during the absence of Senator Robinson-Regis. The Oath of Allegiance as a New Senator was then administered to Mr. Hinds.

Debate is expected to continue on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2014. Sen. Daniel Solomon was the first to join the debate followed by Sen. Anthony Vieira, Sen. Fitzgerald Hinds, the Minister of Local Government and the Minister of National Security. The Prime Minister then rose to respond to contributions made during the debate. The Bill was then considered in the Committee stage. At third reading the Bill was passed by a division of 18 for, 12 against, no abstentions.

Before adjourning, several Senators and the Prime Minister extended greetings to the national community ahead of the country’s 52nd Independence Day on August 31st. The sitting ended at 11:25 p.m.