Opposition walks out of Parliament

The Opposition walked out of Parliament in Trinidad and Tobago Friday, claiming its action was due to the failure of Speaker Wade Mark to recognise Opposition MP Dr Amery Browne, who wished to contribute to the debate.

The matter before the House was the Electronic Transactions Bill. The walkout came when Mark asked Minister of Public Administration, Rudrawatee Nan Ramgoolam, who had piloted the bill, to wrap up the debate. 

While Ramgoolam was addressing the House Opposition Chief Whip, Marlene McDonald, told the Speaker that Browne had intended to speak.

Mark replied that he didn't see the member rise. Mark called on Ramgoolam to continue wrapping up the debate. Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley then led an opposition walkout.

The bill was passed without amendments and the House carried on its business with the opposition members.

The Express newspaper reported that it spoke with Imbert who insisted that the Government knew that Browne was listed to speak.

"We decided to walk out. The only thing the Opposition can do is speak and if we are not allowed to speak then what is the point?" the paper quoted Imbert as saying.