Speaker blanks UNC flood motion

SPEAKER of the House of Representatives, Barry Sinanan, yesterday turned down the Opposition UNC’s attempt to move the adjournment of the Lower House to discuss Wednesday’s flooding in Caroni as a matter of urgent public importance. In presenting the motion at the opening of the Third Session of the Eighth Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago, Opposition Chief Whip Ganga Singh argued that the matter was both definite and urgent “since it relates to a specific matter that is the inundation of several communities, homes, parks and business places in the Caroni River Basin by flood waters resulting from the deluge of Hurricane Ivan.”

Singh also said the flooding posed a grave threat to the health and welfare of residents in the affected areas. However, Sinanan replied: “I have carefully considered the motion brought by the Honou-rable Member and, having considered it, I decline to accept the said motion and would suggest to the Honourable Member that he seek the guidance of Standing Orders 11 (2) and (3).” That matter settled, the Government got its parliamentary agenda in the Lower House rolling with the introduction of the Caroni 1975 Ltd and Orange Grove National Company Ltd (Divestment and Business Development) Bill (2) 2004, CCJ Bill 2004, Constitution Amendment Bill (2) 2004, and the Administration of Justice Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2004.

Leader of Government Business Ken Valley extended condolences to the Speaker on behalf of the Government and Opposition, on the recent passing of his cousin Ashford Sinanan Jr. “Don’t do us any favours!” Opposition Leader Basdeo Panday quipped from his seat. “Its not a favour, it’s merely acknowledging that you too may want to extend condolences to the Speaker,” Valley replied. Valley then sought the adjournment of the Lower House to Wednesday at 1.30 pm.