Mark probes Sadiq’s water tank

SENATE Opposition Leader Wade Mark will seek answers about the police investigations into a quantity of cocaine and two mortar bombs found in UNC Senator Sadiq Baksh’s water tank on the adjournment of today’s sitting of the Senate. Mark told Newsday that he was given permission by Senate President, Dr Linda Baboolal, to raise the matter as a motion on the adjournment of the Upper House today. When the matter was raised in the Lower House two weeks ago by Opposition Chief Whip Ganga Singh, National Security Minister Martin Joseph said police investigations into the matter were ongoing and being spearheaded by a senior officer of the Southern Division. The Minister said the police had encountered some problems obtaining information but had not requested any external assistance. 

The cocaine and mortar bombs were discovered at Baksh’s Palmiste home during the run-up to the October 2002 general elections. Baksh is one of several persons currently charged with corruption arising out of the Piarco Airport Development Project. Mark has questions for Junior Finance Minister Conrad Enill on the National Lotteries Control Board. Baksh has questions for Energy Minister Eric Williams and Housing Minister Dr Keith Rowley on matters pertaining to Petrotrin, Shell Global Solutions and the status of sewer treatment plants at all Government housing sites throughout Trinidad and Tobago, respectively. Trade and Industry Minister Ken Valley will open debate on the Metrology Bill 2004. Friday is Private Members Day in the House of Representatives and debate will continue on a motion by St Joseph MP Gerald Yetming on equality of treatment from the public authorities.