Frankie urges Opposition to back Privy Council abolition

“The last vestige of our colonial past remains,” Khan said, delivering Republic Day greetings as the Senate session opened.

“We urge the Opposition to support this venture during this second session of Parliament.” All sides of the Senate yesterday sent greetings ahead of Republic Day observances.

Senate President Christine Kangaloo praised the, “bond of common excitement and pride”.

“In the challenges and success that are yet to come may we find ourselves continuing to act as one people,” said the Senate President.

Independent Senator Dhanayshar Mahabir said there was need to understand the importance of the holiday.

“There are many people who need to know,” he said.

Opposition Senator Wade Mark said being republic was about sovereignty. He said foreign bodies like the US Congress, the IRS, the Judiciary or the IMF do not have the right to make laws in this country.

During this session, for the first time, Senators will have to declare any conflicts they have during proceedings as the newly amended Standing Orders will take effect during this session.

The announcement that the new rules have taken effect was made by Senate President Christine Kangaloo yesterday as the session opened. The new rules stipulate that, “Before participating in consideration of any item of business in the Senate in which he has a financial interest, a member should disclose the extent of that interest”. From Monday, the new rules which also see a special Parliament committee keep track of all promises made by ministers or parliamentary secretaries will also take effect.

Any assurances made during Question Time, debates and matters on the adjournment will be recorded and monitored, Kangaloo said.

At yesterday’s sitting, Gerald Ramdeen was sworn in as a temporary Opposition Senator.

Yesterday’s opening of the session was punctuated by moments of good cheer.

Kangaloo accidentally appeared to adjourn the Senate unilaterally without recourse of the Senators.

Opposition Senator Wade Mark called for a count on the vote when one member jokingly shouted no in objection to adjournment to a date to be fixed.

“I think we want a division on that!” Mark said.