c ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015

Contents

The Parliament's Maces 3

The Election Process 5

The Constituency Office & Representation: 8 o 'AbadiejO'Meara

A New Chapter for the Red House 10 And National History

Visits by Parliamentary Delegations from: 13 Bermuda, The United Kingdom 0-- Canada

Our Region, Our Parliaments: 16 5t. Vincent and the Grenadines and Guyana

School Outreach: Taking the Parliament to the nation's youths 19

Here's What's Showing on the Parliament Channel 22

We welcome your comments and suggestions Send CrossTalk feedback to [email protected] or Tel: 624-7275 ext. 2275

2 Issue 04· .. June - September 2015 ~

THE PARLIAMENT'S MACES By Lorraine Berahzer & Danielle Williams

The Trinidad and Tobago Parliament is steeped in rich history that embeds almost During the 13005 to 14005 the every symbol, rule and procedure. Two beau­ mace gradually evolved by tiful pieces of that history take shape in the form of the Parliament Maces. being decorated and adorned Originally used as a weapon by a royal bodyguard to defend the King, the mace has with precious metals and be­ now become a symbol of the power the Mar­ came known as the civic mace. shal of the Parliament holds. It also symbolises the authority and privileges of the House. It is interesting to note that this metal staff, which is held over the right shoulder of the Marshal when he escorts the Presiding Officer in and out of the Chamber at the beginning and end of each sitting of the respective House, originated in the 13th century. After some years the mace proved to be too heavy to be used as a weapon and so began its transformation from being a weapon to being a ceremonial artefact. Parliamentary practice dictates that if the mace is not present in the Chamber then the sit­ ting of the House or Senate cannot take place. The Marshal, or a person performing the role in his absence, is the only one authorised to handle the mace. Anything contrary is viewed as wilful disobedience to the rules of the House. 3 c ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015

During the 1300s to 1400s the mace gradually evolved by being decorated and adorned with precious metals and became known as the civic mace. In the Parliament, while the uses and func­ tions of the maces may be the same, they are both individually styled. The Mace of the House of Repre­ sentatives, crafted in 1899 by Silversmith Messrs Garrett of England, is silver gilt and has a two-dimensional silver carv­ ing of the Coat-of-Arms to the top. Its head is ornamented with carved mo­ tifs depicting the landing of Christopher Columbus. Although it was donated to the Leg­ islative Council, when Trinidad and To­ bago achieved Independence in 1962 it found its place in the House of Repre­ sentatives. This made room for the crea­ tion of a second Mace for the Senate. While it may not bear the same historical significance of its silver counterpart, the relevance of the Senate mace is unde­ niable. Loosely patterned around the Tanza­ nian Mace, the mace of the Senate of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is crafted in gold and features two cop­ ies of the Coat-of-Arms, a three dimen­ Today th e mace is used in many sional figurine at the top and an engrav­ ing of the national emblem on its knop. Parl iaments across the world Four round panels along the stem of the a nd bears much sig nificance as mace depict the oil industry, the sugar it did in the olden days. Wh ile industry, the cocoa industry and the symbol of the manufacturer's associa­ the Marshals, Speakers of th e tion. House and Presidents of the At the top of the base of the Shaft Senate may change, th e there appears the National Flower; the Chaconia and another popular flower; symbol of that a uthority, the the Anthurium Lily. The Fleuron or end sign that Parliament is in Se ss ion, of the Mace is in the shape of a cocoa remains th e sa me. pod.

4 Issue 04· .. June - September 2015 ~

THE ELECT ON PROCESS By A tiba Wiltshire

At any time between now and September 17th a date will be announced for general elections and citizens of Trinidad and Tobago who are over the age of eighteen (18) will be called upon to exercise their civic duty and vote for the political party which, in their view, would best lead this nation for the next five years. Sensing the inevitability of having to be on the political hustings once again, the ma­ jor political parties have already begun screening candidates to represent them in the forty one (41) constituencies through­ out our twin-island state. As such, we at CrossTalk wanted to inform our readers (some of whom may themselves be con­ sidering running for political office) of the processes that come into play in running for elections, participating in the election process through voting and the role the Parliament plays during this period.

5 c ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015

How the process begins: On Nomination Day all nomination The Prime Minister advises the Presi­ papers are examined by the Return­ dent of the Republic of Trinidad and ing Officer and, once they are valid Tobago of the date on which the and a deposit is paid ($5,000 due on General Election is to be held. Nomination Day for General Elections Once the date for the general and $2,000 for Local Government election is announced, a Writ of Elec­ Elections), the nominee is declared an tion is issued under the seal of the Pres­ election candidate for the respective u ident. The Writ of Election is addressed constituency. to each Returning Officer and fixes The Representation of the People the date for the nomination of candi­ Act Chap 2:01 explains in detail the o dates (Nomination Day) and the date processes that must be followed in the on which the poll will be held (Election run-up to an election and also con­ 0::: Day). tains copies of all official documents Election Day must be held no more issued during an election, including c.. than twenty one (21) days after Nomi­ copies of Nomination Papers and the nation Day. For example, if Nomina­ Writ of Elections issued by the Presi­ tion Day is June 1st then Election Day dent of the Republic. must be held by June 22nd. Z For the Voter: For the Candidate: Prior to Election Day, each regis­ Any person who wishes to be a tered voter should receive a poll card o candidate for an election must first in the mail. The poll card would con­ be nominated by at least six (6) reg­ tain, among other things, the address istered voters in that constituency, of the voter's polling station. If he orshe meaning that their names must ap­ does not receive a poll card before pear on the list of voters in the con­ Election Day, one will be prepared for b stituency for which the candidate is him or herat the respective polling sta­ UJ seeking nomination. An election can­ tion and the Elections and Boundaries didate can only be nominated in one Commission can be contacted via ....J constituency. their hotlines at 627-1516 or 627-0745 Candidacy hopefuls for an elec­ to find out the address of the polling UJ toral district must fill out the respective station. On Election Day voters need nomination papers which they can to present their photo ID (whether Na­ collect and return to the Returning tionallD or Driver's License) when they Officer (the person who has overall go to the polling station. In the event responsibility for the conduct of the that more than one polling station is election) on or before Nomination located on the same compound, an Day. There are forty one (41) returning Information Officer will be on hand to officers, each of whom has an office direct them to their polling station. in his respective constituency in Trini­ If a voter's name is on the list of dad and Tobago. Electors and they have a valid ID It is advisable for prospective can­ card, he or she would be asked to join didates to return their nomination the green line for voting at the poll­ papers at least seven days before ing station. If not or if that individual is Nomination Day. This is because a pre­ physically handicapped or visually im­ liminary examination of filed papers is paired, they would be asked to join the conducted on the seventh day prior red line. Each voterwould be asked to to Nomination Day. sign their poll card in front of the Poll

6 Clerk. The Deputy Presiding vise the President of the date tional emergency should arise Officer would then examine that Parliament should be dis­ between the date that Par­ the voter's fingers and, if there solved and the date on which liament is dissolved and the is no evidence of electoral the poll will be taken. Accord­ date of election in which the ink stains, the voter would re­ ing to Section 69: 1 of the Con­ involvement of the Parlia ment ceive a ballot paper. The bal­ stitution "A general election of would be needed? Well, ac­ lot paper should be marked members of the House of cording to Section 68:4 of the and folded, with the use of a Representatives shall be Constitution, if such a situation, guidance ballot, to display the held at such time within three on the advice of the Prime initials of the Deputy Presiding months after every dissolution Minister should arise, "the Pres­ Officer and the Polling Station of Parliament as the President, ident, acting in accordance Number. acting in accordance with the with the advice of the Prime From there each voter advice of the Prime Minister; Minister; may summon the would proceed to the voting shall appoint." This means that two Houses of the preceding booth and vote for the can­ the Prime Minister has to en­ Parliament". In such a case, didate of his or her choice sure that Election Day comes Members of the preceding by placing an 'X' to the right no later than 3 months after Parliament would act in the of their candidate's symbol. Parliament is dissolved. portfolios which they previous­ When the voter comes out of The leader of the political ly held. the voting booth the Deputy party which, at the end of a Every citizen ofTrinidad and Presiding Officer would instruct general election, commands Tobago needs to understand him or her on how to fold their the majority of seats or the how significant it is for all to ex­ ballot and they will be instruct­ support of the majority of the ercise their civic duty. ed to proceed to the officer in elected Members of Parlia­ charge of the ballot box. ment from among the forty For more information on Next the voter will be in­ one (41) constituencies is the the election process go to structed to dip their right index person who becomes the the Elections and Boundaries finger into the electoral ink be­ Prime Minister. Additionally, Commission website at www. fore placing their ballot into the Prime Minister continues to ebctt.com the ballot box. serve until a new Prime Minister Congrats! The voting pro­ is sworn in, while Ministers va- You can also visit the Partia­ cess is complete! cate office when a new Prime ment's Youtube page to view Minister is sworn in; the Presi- a live action/animated fea­ For the Politician: dent of the Senate and the ture titled iCount which also When the Prime Minister Speaker of the House contin­ explains the election process. decides the date on which ue in those roles until the new https://www.youtube.com/ General Elections will be held Parliament sits. watch?v=38-zlbbHO_1 he or she would then ad- And what if a matter of na- 7 c ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015 The Constituency Office & Representation: o 'Abadie/O'Meara By Dwoyne Hoynes

The constituency of seat, the elected Member of ency office staff). The Clerk of D'Abadie/O'Meara was de­ Parliament who represents his/ the House as Accounting Of­ veloped in part due to a popu­ her constituency must have ficer is responsible for ensuring lation boom and industrial de­ an official base in their elec­ accountability of the funds ex­ velopments along the east-/ toral area, this base is often pended, in accordance with west corridor of Trinidad, circa called a constituency office. the Exchequer and Audit Act . 1999, and onwards. The Elec­ This office is a direct line of Since the general elections tions and Boundaries Commis­ communication between the of 2007, the constituency of sion (EBC) Report of 2004 rec­ community and their elected D'Abadie/O'Meara has had ommended that the electoral representative. In the simplest two (2) parliamentary repre­ boundaries be increased from of terms, the constituency of­ sentatives. Mrs. Karen Nunez thirty-four (34) to thirty-nine fice is a conduit and binding Tesheira, an attorney-at-Iaw (39) seats in Trinidad, with no force between the represent­ and Senior Tutor at the Hugh alterations to the two (2) exist­ ative and the people. Ac­ Wooding Law School in St. ing seats in Tobago. That fig­ cording to Peter MacLeod in Augustine, Trinidad, was the ure has since been increased the Canadian Parliamentary People's National Movement to 41 seats overall. Review (2006) " ... the constitu­ (PNM) representative. Follow­ According to the EBC's ency office stands alone as a ing the May 24, 2010 general report, the constituency kind of local infrastructure for elections, the constituency boundaries of Arouca North encounter; recognition and chose Mr. Anil Roberts, Con­ and Arouca South would be engagement, connecting gress of the People (COP) separated and, based on its citizen to representative, and representative a nd renowned calculations, three constituen­ citizen to state ." swimming coach. Through the cies along the east/west cor­ Each member of the Par­ efforts of Mrs. Nunez-Tesheira ridor came into being, namely liament while performing his/ and Mr. Roberts together with Arouca/Maloney, Lopinot/ her tasks as a representative the energies of their dedi­ Bon Air West and D'Abadie/ of the constituency is entitled cated staff, they were able O'Meara. The creation of to an office within his con­ to execute a number of pro­ these seats transformed the stituency and to organize the jects and programmes in the electoral landscape with the activities of that office as the D'Abadie/O'Meara constitu­ addition of new polling divi­ MP sees fit. The Office of the ency. These representatives sions. These polling divisions Parliament is responsible for have been praised for their are the areas in which mem­ providing guidance on the constituency relations work bers of the constituency cast procedures and policies for which has helped mobilize cit­ their votes for a representa­ the operations of constituen­ izen participation in public af­ tive. cy offices as may be recom­ fairs and matters that directly The hallmark of democracy mended by the House Com­ impact their lives. To date, the is appropriate representation mittee and approved by the constituency of D' Abadie/ forthe people and by the peo- Speaker of the House, (and O'Meara is an eclectic mix­ 8 pie. To effectively manage a pays the salaries of constitu- ture of suburban life, industrial and manufacturing prowess stymied. In order to continue D'Abadie/O'Meara constitu­ and a thriving campus of the the efficient and effective ency. While Ms. Metivier is no University of Trinidad and To­ representation of the constitu­ stranger to this constituency, bago. ents, the Congress of the Peo­ she is charged with working However; the political fore­ ple appointed the caretaker closely with the electorate to cast can be inclement and representative Ms. Patricia ensure their needs a nd con­ in early 2014, Mr. R0 berts re­ Metivier to carry on the ever­ cerns are promptly addressed signed as a Member of Parlia­ essential function of represen­ with the best results. While the ment for the constituency of tation to constituents of the constituency is not represent­ D'Abadie/O'Meara and as area. ed at the Parliamentary level, Minister of Sport. This severely Ms. Metivier comes with issues impacting D'Abadie/ impacted the needs of the experience in the political O'Meara can be addressed community and the constitu­ arena and was the immedi­ through line ministers and their ency of some 27,000 plus resi­ ate past Deputy Mayor of the respective ministries. dents as specific needs and Arima Borough Corporation special projects have been which includes parts of the 9 A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE

and National History By Dwoyne Hoynes The Red House Restoration Project has certainly had its complement of impediments and setbacks. However, the most exciting of them was the discovery of human remains and cultural artefacts during the seismic ret­ rofitting phase of the project. These discoveries have added to the buzz in the cultural and archaeological community of Trinidad and Tobago as they will be new additions to the historical record. 10 Issue 04· .. June - September 2015 ~

he finds at the Red House boast a total of six (6) complete skeletons, forty-nine T(49) incomplete skeletons, and several coins, including the valuable United States Gold Lustre Coin. Through the various test­ ing methods of carbon dating and DNA analysis (which assessed mitochondrial haplogroups) at the Merriwether Ancient DNA and Forensic Lab including Beta An­ alytic Inc., it was revealed that the Red House site was occupied by pre-colonial native groups centuries before the origi­ nal Red House building in 1844. The chro­ nology, AD 450, can be tied specifically to the Saladoid People. Further tests con­ firmed linkages to the pre-colonial groups such as the Arauqinoid indigenes (locally referred to as Guayabitoid) and Mayoid indigenous groups. Dr. Basil Reid of U.W.I. wrote that the Saladoids were the first Am­ erindian potters, farmers and villagers to arrive in Trinidad and Tobago in 250 BC and, by 600 AD, had settled extensively in both islands. With these discoveries, there is a great­ er need for protection and management in line with international best practices of historical artefacts. The need for pro­ tection led to the Cabinet commissioned "Red House Historical Cultural Heritage Team". The team comprises members from a number of stakeholder groups such as the National Trust of Trinidad and To­ bago, the Red House Project Consultants and the Trinidad and Tobago Amerindian and First People Communities. One of the Committee's major achievements was to recognize the rights of the first people un­ der the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, and allowing the first people to hold religious ceremo­ nies on the grounds of the Red House. The Committee has also agreed, that all the remains should be interred on the grounds of the Red House with an appropriate sig­ nage indicating the significance of the area. It is imminent that dialogues with these groups continue for mutual befit and the good of the common heritage and rights of the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago. 11 c ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015

In addition, The Office of the Parliament House artefacts. Through UNESCO and the has signed a memorandum of understand­ National Commission for UNESCO, strategic ing with the University of Central Florida. This links can be established with the International agreement has facilitated further examination Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), and tests on the skeletons and bones found International Council of Museums (ICOM) and at the Red House by Dr. John Schult, Forensic the Caribbean Capacity Building Programme Anthropologist, in January 2015. In addition, (CCBP), skilled expertise and training can be Dr. Basil A. Reid, the lead archaeologist on provided to ensure that the foundation and this project, has developed a network of spe­ continuity of heritage protection and conser­ cialists in various disciplines to develop a Red vation is managed and developed. In future, House 3D Archaeological Geodatabase (GIS). the museum can be a medium where the This database houses all information related to principles of the Parliament's Outreach Initia­ the discoveries at the Red House. tives, parliamentary history and by extension, While there is much elation surrounding national history can be taught and learned at these developments, in reflecting on this na­ the seat of the legislature. tion's commitment to preservation of our na­ tional heritage, there is much to be expected. Since 1972 Trinidad and Tobago has signed a number of conventions, with a view to actively engage in cultural protection and preserva­ tion na mely: • The convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972) and rafified (2005); • The convention for the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage (2001) and rati­ fied (2010); • The Conventions for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (2003) was signed and ratified (2010); and • The Convention for the Protection and Promofion of the Diversity of Cultural Expres­ sion (2005) and ratified on the (2010) . Through these conventions the necessary skills and knowledge can be harnessed to en­ sure that national treasures can be restored and protected. However; looking upon the Magnificent Seven, one wonders about their dispelled bravura. It is no secret that there is need for the protection and restoration of na­ tional history. Moving forward the Parliament of the Re­ public of Trinidad and Tobago must take a leading role with the construction and effi­ cient maintenance of a Parliamentary Muse­ um. While the idea will not be a novelty in the Commonwealth, it will surely be the most reli­ able and feasible option to safeguard the Red

12 c ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015

hroughout the year; the Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago plays host to various Parliamentary Delegations from across the Caribbean region and the wider world. During the periods January to March 2015, the Parliament was honoured with the presence of severa I Parlia mentary delega­ tions from the United Kingdom, Bermudan and Canadian legislatures. The period of January 25th, 2015 to Feb­ ruary 1st, 2015 saw the Parliament entertain­ ing delegates from the Bermudan Parliament led by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Kenneth Howard Randolph Horton who was joined by: From left to right (front row) are; Sen. Betty Unger, Conservative Party 1. Mr. Waiter Brown, JP, MP - Shadow Min­ of Canada, Sen. Leo Housakos, Speaker Pro Tempore of the Senate, Sen. PerIa Merchant, Independent Senator, Sen. David M. Wells, ister of Immigration and External Affairs; Conservative Party o/Canada and High Commissionerfor Canada to 2. Mr. N. H. Cole Simons, JP, MP - Govern­ Trinidad (/nd Tobago, His Excellency Gerard Lalullppe. From left to right (back row) are; Independent Senators, Sen. Grant ment Whip; MitdJeU and Sen. Anne C. Cools. 3. Ms. Lovitta Foggo, JP, MP - Opposition Whip; land of Tobago, the delegation departed on 4. Ms. Susan Jackson, JP, MP; Sunday February 1st, 2015. 5. Mrs. Shernette Wolfe - Clerk to the Leg­ The period February 1st to the 7th, 2015 saw islature. the Parliamentary Delegation from the United Notably, all three delegations began their Kingdom on our shores. This seven-member first day at the Trinidad and Tobago Parlia­ delegation, led by Mr. Mark Simmonds, MP, ment with a courtesy call on the Presiding Of­ Leader of the Delegation and Member of Par­ ficers. On arrival at the Parliament, they were liament for Boston and Skegness (Conserva­ greeted by Mr. Bria n Caesar; Marsha I of the tive) also included: Parliament, and escorted to the Diplomatic 1. Ms. Diane Abbott, MP - Member of Par­ Room on Level 2 at the Parliament. During the liament for Hackney North and Stoke Newing­ courtesy call they met wih the Speaker of the ton (Labour); House, Hon. Wade Mark, MP, and the newly 2. Mr. Andrew Rosindell, MP - Member of appointed President of the Senate, Sen. the Parliament for Romford (Conservative); Hon. Raziah Ahmed (who replaced Mr. Timo­ 3. Baroness Scott of Needham Market - thy Hamel-Smith). During the courtesy call, Member of the House of Lords (Liberal Demo­ they held discussions with the Presiding Of­ crat); ficers which concluded with an exchange of 4. Baroness Howells of st David's, OBE - gifts and the signing of the visitor's book. Member of the House of Lords (Labour); The Bermudan delegation then made 5. Baroness Stern, CBE - Member of the their way to Tower e, located at the Water­ House of Lords (Crossbencher); front Centre in Port-of-Spain, and held discus­ 6. Mr. Matthew Salik - Delegation Secre­ sions with the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, tary Americas, Caribbean and Europe Pro­ Hon. Dr. Surujrattan Rambachan, MP, on mul­ gramme Manager; CPA UK. tilateral issues which affect the Caribbean re­ Not only were courtesy calls paid on the gion. Visits were also held with senior members Presiding Officers but the delegation also met of staff at the Office of the Parliament particu­ with the President of the Republic of Trinidad larly Mrs. Jacqueline Sampson-Meiguel, Clerk and Tobago, His Excellency Anthony Thom­ of the House, and Mrs. Nataki Atiba-Dilchan, as Aquinas Carmona, Se, ORH Opposition Clerk of the Senate. Following a tour of the is- Leader; Hon. Dr. Keith Rowley, MP, as well as 14 Issue 04· .. June - September 2015 ~ the Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of As they continued with discussions on na­ Assembly and Secretary of Planning, Public tional security, they visited the Vice Chief of Administration, Information, State Lands and Defence Staff, Brigadier General Anthony W.J. Energy Matters, Hon. Orville D. London. Phillips-Spencer. Following the conclusion of With several key state officials identified to this meeting, the delegates made their way hold discussions, the delegation embarked on back to the Parliament just in time to view the several meetings with the Minister of Finance 21 st Sitting of the Senate as well as to hold a and the Economy, the Minister of Gender; final meeting with the Minister of Energy and Youth and Child Development, the Attorney Energy Affairs, Sen. the Hon. Kevin Ramnarine. General, The Minister of Legal Affairs and Jus­ A closing function was held by the Trinidad tice, the Minister of Energy and Energy Affairs and Tobago Branch of the Commonwealth and the Minister of Education. The delegation Parliamentary Association at Tiki Village locat­ also visited several key organisations including ed at the Kapok Hotel. Among the attendees the Environmental Management Authority, the were the President of the Senate, Sen. the Hon. Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Services, Raziah Ahmed, the Speaker of the House, Hon. British Gas Trinidad and Tobago, the Universi­ Wade Mark, MP, Independent Senator; Antho­ ty of the West Indies, CARIRI, the Coalition of ny Vieira, Member of Parliament for Laventille Women's Rights and Witness and Victim Sup­ East/Morvant, Ms. Donna Cox, MP, and Mem­ port Unit of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Ser­ ber of Parliament for Fyzabad, Mr. Chandresh vice, United Way and the University of the West Sharma, MP, as well as other specially invited Indies for Invest Trinidad and Tobago. guests and staff of the Office of the Parliament. During the period of March 14th to 18th Before leaving, the UK, Bermudan and Ca­ 2015, a seven-member delegation from the nadian Parliamentarians praised the Parlia­ Parliament of Canada led by Speaker Pro ment of Trinidad and Tobago for the hospitality Tempore of the Senate, Sen. Leo Housakos shown and expressed a sense of gratitude for were guests of the Executive Committee of the the deepening of ties. Trinidad and Tobago Branch of the Common­ wealth Parliamentary Association. However; from March 16th to 17th they met with several state officials, including courtesy calls on the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Toba­ go, Presiding Officers and an impromptu visit by the Minister of Legal Affairs and Minister of Justice, Hon. Prakash Ramadhar; MP, as well as the Leader of the Opposition. After a quick lunch, meetings continued with the Minister of Trade, Industry, Investment and Communications, Sen. the Hon. Vasant Bharath as well as the Minister of Foreign Af­ fairs, Hon. Winston Dookeran, MP. Additionally the delegates met with the UK Delegation Photo From left to right are: Mr_Matthew Salik - Delegation Secretary Honourable Chief Justice of Trinidad and To­ Americas, Caribbean and Europe Programme Manager, CPA UK, Mr. bago, Mr. Justice Ivor Archie on areas of Na­ Andrew Rosindell, MP - Member of Parliament for Romford (Conserva ­ tive), Mr. Mark Simmonds, MP, Leader of the Delegation and Member of tional Security as well as the Executive Director Parliament for Boston and Skegness (Conservative), Mr. Kelvin Charles, of the National Operations Centre, Mr. Garvin Presiding Officer of the Tobago House of Assembly, Assemblyman Clau - Heerah. The delegates were shown various as­ dia Groome-Duke, Member for Black Rock/ Whim/Spring Garden & Secretary of Health and Social Services, Baroness Howells of St David's, pects of the day-to-day operations while at OBE - Member of the House of Lords (Labour), Ms. Diane Abbott, MP - the National Operations Centre and given a Member of Parliament for Hackney North and Stoke Newington (Labour) and Baroness $colt of Need ham Market - Member of the House of Lords tour of the worksite area. (Liberal Democrat). 15 ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015 Our Region, ••• Our Parliaments St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Guyana By Melissa Griffith "About 90 percent of the world's nearly in 1925 ending with the granting of universal 200 sovereign states have national legislatures adult suffrage in 1951. During this period, the or parliaments. With the spread of democra­ British made several unsuccessful attempts to cy and the rise of multiparty political systems, affiliate St. Vincent and the Grenadines with these bodies are playing larger roles in gov­ other Windward Islands in order to govern the ernment. Increasingly, legislatures and their region through a unified administration, quite members perform four important functions of notably the West Indies Federation which governance; making policies and laws, repre­ was short lived as it ended in 1962. However; senting citizens, overseeing the executive and St. Vincent and the Grenadines was granted recruiting future leaders." (Manning and Stap­ associate statehood status on October 27th, enhurst, 2002). While this may be true, no one 1969 giving it complete control over its internal can underestimate the role of Parliaments in affairs. Following a referendum in 1979, St. Vin­ promoting democracy in society such as the cent and the Grenadines became the last of Parliaments of St. Vincent and the Grenadines the Windward Islands to gain independence and Guyana. which is celebrated every year on 27th Octo­ ber. st. Vincent and the Grenadines The Parliament of St. Vincent and the Gren­ Before the arrival of the Europeans and Af­ adines is modelled on that of the British Par­ ricans in the 16th century, various Amerindian liament. However; whereas Britain has two groups passed through or settled in St. Vincent Houses of Parliament: the House of Commons and the Grenadines including the Ciboney, and the House of Lords, which together with Arawak and Carib peoples. By the time Chris­ the Queen, make up the Parliament, the Par­ topher Columbus passed near St. Vincent and liament of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the Grenadines on his fourth voyage in 1502, comprised of the House of Assembly and the the Caribs had occupied the island after dis­ Governor-General. Essentially, St. Vincent and placing the Arawaks a few centuries earlier. the Grenadines is described as a parliamen­ While the English were the first to lay claim to tary democracy and constitutional monarchy St. Vincent in 1627, the French, centred on the with Queen Elizabeth II as head of state, bear­ island of Martinique, would be the first Europe­ ing the title Queen of Saint Vincent and the an settlers on the island when they established Grenadines". Nevertheless, Queen Elizabeth II their first colony at Barrouallie on the Leeward does not reside in the islands and is represent­ island of St. Vincent in 1719. ed in the country by the Governor General. From 1763 until Independence, St. Vin­ The Office of the Governor General has mostly cent passed through various stages of colo­ ceremonial functions including the opening nial status under the British. In 1776, a Repre­ of the islands' House of Assembly and the ap­ sentative Assembly was authorised, followed pointment of various government officials. by a Crown Colony government which was The legislative arm of government is the 16 installed in 1877, then a Legislative Council House of Assembly of St. Vincent and the Issue 04· .. June - September 2015 CR

Grenadines which is described as unicameral pendence Act, 1966 which was passed on in nature. At present the House of Assembly 12th May, 1966 but came into force on 26th consists of a total of twenty-three (23) mem­ May, 1966. On this same day, the Guyana Par­ bers including fifteen (15) elected members liament held its first sitting of the National As­ representing single-member constituencies, six sembly. While the law enacting Guyana's Par­ (6) appointed Senators, the Attorney-General liament came into force on 26th May, 1966, and the Speaker of the House. The member­ it would be misleading to conclude that Guy­ ship of the House may vary, as is the case now, ana's Parliamentary system was created at In­ in that the Attorney-General, who is a Public dependence. Servant, and the Speaker of the House, may In 1831 the three Colonies of Demerara, be elected from outside of the House. None­ Essequibo and Berbice were united and the theless, they are always regarded as members Colony of British Guiana was formed. From the of the House. years 1831 to 1928 the Law Making Body of Following the general elections held on British Guiana was the Court of Policy which 13th December; 2010, the United Labour Par­ consisted of the Governor; seven official mem­ ty (ULP) led by the incumbent Prime Minister bers and eight elected members. The Gover­ of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Hon. nor presided in the Court of Policy as its Presi­ Ralph Everard Gonzalves, MP was once again dent. However this was short lived as in 1928 re-elected to serve the people of St. Vincent a new Constitution was introduced and Brit­ and the Grenadines. Mr. Gonzalves has been ish Guiana became a British Crown Colony. serving in this capacity as Prime Minister of St. As such a Legislative Council was established Vincent and the Grenadines since 2001, be­ and replaced the Dutch created Court of coming the first Prime Minister from the newly Policy. In 1953 a new Constitution was promul­ constructed United Labour Party (ULP), fol­ gated and a bicameral legislature, consisting lowing a merger of the St. Vincent and the of a State Council which comprised of nine Grenadines Labour Party and the Movement members and a House of Assembly compris­ of National Unity. He has however served as a ing of a Speaker; three ex officio Members and Member of Parliament for the constituency of twenty four Elected Members was introduced. North Central Windward since 1994. Under this new Constitution, the Speaker was Section 30 of the Constitution of St. Vincent appointed by the governor; a new and sepa­ and the Grenadines provides for the appoint­ rate Department called the Office of the Leg­ ment of a Speaker. He is elected by the ma­ islature, was established with a Clerk of the jority party in the House of Assembly in con­ Legislature as its head as well as a Ministerial sultation with the Opposition, when the House system of Government and universal adult suf­ first meets after a General Election and be­ frage were introduced. fore it proceeds to the dispatch of any other The Legislature that came into effect in business. The present Speaker of the House, is May, 1953 was short-lived as five (5) months the Hon. Hendrick Alexander who is current­ later; the British suspended the Constitution ly the longest serving Speaker to be elected and an Interim Government was established in the House of Assembly. The Speaker is not by the British Guiana (Constitutional) (Tem­ an elected Member; nor is he a Senator. Nei­ porary Provisions) Order in Council, 1953. This ther the Speaker of the House nor the Deputy Legislative Council consisting of a Speaker; Speaker can be a Minister of Government. three ex-officio Members and not more than twenty four nominated members was created Guyana by this Order on the 22nd December; 1953. The The Parliament of Guyana was created by Speaker; who was not an ex-officio member or the 1966 Constitution of Guyana, embodied in nominated member of the Legislative Coun- the Schedule of the Guyana Independence cil, was appointed by the Governor. In 1956 Order; made pursuant to the Guyana Inde- the British Guiana (Constitutional) (Temporary 17 c ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015 Provisions) Order in Council was amended. framework of a representative democratic The Legislative Council appointed under the republic, whereby the President of Guyana is British Guiana (Constitution) (Temporary Provi­ the head of government and of a multi-par­ sions) Order in Council was dissolved with ef­ ty system. Consequently, this means that the fect from 29th June, 1957. President of the Co-operative Republic of In 1957 general elections were held and Guyana must delegate and present a leader the PPP Jaganite under the leadership of Dr. from a slate of candidates who will become Cheddi Jagan won the elections. A second the President if that party receives the largest Legislative Council constituted under the (Brit­ number of votes. A person who serves as Presi­ ish Guiana (Constitution) (Temporary Provi­ dent has the capacity to dissolve the Parlia­ sions) Orders in Council 1953 and 1956 was ment, however the Constitution does not pro­ appointed. However; this Legislative Council vide any mechanism for Parliament to replace now consisted of the Speaker; three ex-officio the President during his or her term of office, members, fourteen elected members and except in case of mental incapacity or gross eleven nominated members. constitutional violations. Guyana is also known In 1961 a new Constitution was established as a member state of the Commonwealth of and a bicameral legislature consisting of a Nations and has the distinction of being known Legislative Assembly and a Senate was creat­ as well as the only South American nation in ed. The Senate consisted of thirteen members, which English is the official language. who were appointed by the Governor. Of the The results of the 2011 General Elections thirteen members, eight were appointed by showed the incumbent People's Progressive the Governor in accordance with the advice Party winning 48.6% of the total votes, usher­ of the Premier; three were appointed by the ing in a fifth consecutive term in government. Governor acting in consultation with such per­ The PPP obtained a total of 32 of the 65 seats sons as, in his discretion, he considered could in the National Assembly while the combined have spoken for the political points of view of opposition parties won the majority of seats, groups represented in the Legislative Assembly resulting in the first minority government in by members constituting the minority, and two Guyanese history. For the opposition, A Part­ were appointed by the Governor acting in his nership for National Unity (APNU) received 26 discretion. seats with 40.8% of the total vote, the Alliance The Legislative Assembly consisted of thirty for Change (AFC) won 7 seats with 10.3% and five (35) members elected under the electoral the United Force won 0.3% of the vote. system of "First Past the Post". Elections were The APNU and AFC joined forces for the na­ held in May 1961 and the Peoples Progressive tional election of 11 th May, 2015 and won the Party won 21 of the 35 seats in the Legislative majority of seats in the Parliament taking 33 of Assembly. A Council of Ministers consisting of the 65 seats. Following the opposition coali­ a Premier and nine other Ministers was also tion's victory, Opposition Leader Mr. David A. created. The Council of Ministers had gen­ Granger was sworn in as the President on 16th eral direction and control of the country and May, 2015. was collectively responsible to the Legislature. The Council of Ministers and the Premier were Sources: all members of the Legislative Assembly. The hHp:/ /parliament.gov.gy/ Premier was appointed by the Governor as a http://www.assembly.gov.vc!index . Member of the Legislative Assembly who was php?option=com_content&view=arlicle&id=2 best able to command the confidence of a 8<emid=47 majority of members of the Legislative Assem­ bly. Dr. Cheddi Jagan was appointed Guy­ ana's first Premier on the 6th of October; 1961. The politics of Guyana takes place in the

18 Issue 04· .. June - September 2015 ~ PARLIAMENT'S SCHOOL OUTREACH By Melissa Griffith

'Information and knowledge are essen­ "In order to become a Parliamentarian, tial elements of an effective democracy'. are there any specific requirements that Unless the public are informed about what are needed?" parliaments are doing they cannot infiu­ "If a member does not obey the laws of ence the institution; and unless they can Trinidad and Tobago, what would happen infiuence the institution they cannot hold to them?" it and their elected members fully to ac­ "How effective is the law enforcement count". (Parliaments and Public Engage­ system?" ment: Innovation and Good Practice from What do all these questions have in Around the World, Dr. Ruth Fox, pg. 7). As common? At one point or another; these such, Parliament Outreach programmes questions were asked by students to the are just one of the ways that citizens of Trini­ panel during the Parliament Schools Out­ dad and Tobago can be educated about reach programme, which is currently in its the role they play in infiuencing the "Seat fifth session. Between the period January of Democracy" in our nation. to May 2015, the Parliament has sched­ "How can the public be assured that uled visits which would see us interacting comments are taken into account seriously with students from over twenty secondary by the Parliament?" schools across Trinidad and Tobago. 19 c ss Issue 04 ... June - September 2015

This fifth session of the Parliament Schools several forms such as making the proceed­ Outreach programme began in the south- ings of the House and Senate open to the land, in the city of San Fernando. The venue public. Mr. Hamel-Smith stated that, thanks chosen for this outreach was the San Fer- to modern technology, it is now possible nando City Hall, where students from Na- for the public to view the proceedings on parima College, Presentation College and their television in the comfort of your home, the Open Bible High School attended and or listen to it on their radio while they drive, interacted with the former President of the or stream it via the Internet from anywhere Senate, Sen. the Hon. Timothy Hamel Smith, in the world. Avinash Ragoonanansingh, a Dr. Brinsley Samaroo, Resource Person, and student of Naparima College, praised Mr. Mr. Julien Ogilvie, Procedural Clerk at the Hamel-Smith for a presentation which he Office of the Parliament. In delivering the found very informative. Avinash then en­ feature presentation entitled "The New quired on whether there are any specific Standing Orders: Encouraging Transpar- requirements to be a Member of Parlia­ ency and Accountability" the former Presi- ment in the Senate or in the House of Rep­ dent of the Senate stressed that, in terms resentatives. In response, Mr. Julien Ogilvie, of the Parliament, transparency can take Procedural Clerk at the Office of the Par­ liament indicated that "according to the Constitution, the only requirement is that the prospective Member of Parliament, with respect to the House of Representa­ tives, ought to be elected to the House of Representatives and should be at least 18 years of age. On the other hand, the re­ quirements for the Senate are that an in­ dividual must be a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago and should be twenty-five years of age or upwards". The Parliament then made its way to the North Eastern District for a Schools Outreach on Thursday January 29th, 2015. Held at the 20 Issue 04· .. June - September 2015 C

Arima North Secondary School students of Arima North, Arima Central and Malabar Secondary Schools were in attendance and came face-to-face with the Speaker of the House, Hon. Wade Mark, MP, Mrs. Jacqueline Phillip-Stoute, Parliamentary Clerk II of the Office of the Parliament and Dr. Maukesh Basdeo, Resource Person and a Parliamentary Delegation from Bermuda which was lead by Hon. K. H. Randolph Hor­ ton, Speaker of the Bermuda House of As­ sembly. Speaking on 'The Role of the Par­ liament in the promotion of Democracy', Mr. Mark pointed out that the Parliament embodies democracy and is the main insti­ of the Parliament on two separate occa­ tution through which the will of the people sions. On the first occasion, the Speaker is expressed, laws are passed and where is­ addressed the students of Barataria North sues of national importance are debated. and Barataria South Secondary Schools He quickly noted, however, that modern and St. George's College on the topic "The parliaments must be representative, trans­ Process of Law-Making". Later on the new­ parent, accessible, accountable and ef­ ly appointed President of the Senate, Sen. fective. The students definitely came pre­ the Hon. Raziah Ahmed delivered her pres­ pared with several questions for the panel. entation on the role of the Presiding Officer One of these questions came from Sasha to students from Belmont Boys ' Secondary Lane of Arima North Secondary who asked and Belmont Secondary School who were what the consequences would be if a in attendance on Thursday April 26th, 2015. Member of Parliament did not obey the For the last Outreach for that term, the laws of Trinidad and Tobago. Parliament made its way to Williamsville Mr. Mark approached this question in Secondary School where the Speaker two ways and explained that a Member of along with the Deputy Speaker and Mem­ Parliament operates both in the Parliament ber of Parliament for Princes Town, Mrs. Nela as well as in the society. With regard to their Khan, M P, and other panelists addressed operations within the Parliament, they are students from Williamsville Secondary and given a certain level of privilege that is free­ Princes Town Secondary Schools on the dom of speech which no other member of "Role of a Member of Parliament". the public can enjoy unless they become When the programme re-com- a Parliamentarian. However, if a member mences it will continue to deliver on its tar­ breaches the rules of engagement i.e. the geted objective, i.e. to build awareness of Standing Orders, they would be referred to the role and importance of the Parliament the Privileges Committee and can be sus­ among the young citizens of Trinidad and pended or otherwise reprimanded. On the Tobago. other hand, if the Member of Parliament Go to the Parliament's Facebook page should break a law, that Memberwould be www.facebook.com/ttparliament for infor­ dealt with by the police. mation on these episodes of the Schools The Parliament Schools Outreach Pro­ Outreach which will be shown on Parlia­ gramme continued with visits at the Office ment Channel 1 1. 21 Programmes on the PARLIAMENT CHANNEL By Kimberly DeSouza

he Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago the channel also contains international is synonymous with Sittings of the House programming such as the United Nations' of Representatives and the Senate. mini-documentaries. Since its launch in Au­ Thus, when the Parliament Channel 11 or its gust 2006, the Parliament Channel 11 has sister medium - Parliament Radio 10S.SFM remained committed to bringing the life of - are mentioned, most people are of the the Parliament into the homes of citizens. opinion that both channels are only used Programmes have been tailored to suit a to broadcast House Sittings, however this is diverse and evolving population whose not the case. In addition to parliamentary needs differ from time to time. proceedings such as Committee meetings, For this reason, a host of new pro­ the Parliament Channel airs a slew of other grammes have been added to supple­ programmes that are used to educate citi­ ment many of the existing features that are zens about this country's seat of democ­ currently aired on the Parliament Channel. racy. While most of the features highlight Here are some of them: 22 the work and operations of our legislature, Issue 04· .. June - September 2015 ~

Although some of look into the many training and rehearsal sessions that the students undertake before the programmes were the big day. produced to target a Our Region, Our Parliaments - This pro­ gramme features the birth and history particular age-group, of parliaments belonging to some of our Commonwealth partner nations across the the content is relevant Caribbean, including Barbados, Guyana, to persons of all ages. Grenada and Jamaica. Parliament Apprentice - During the Au­ Democracy Challenge - Did you know gust school holidays in 2013 and 2014, the that the Parliament of Trinidad and Toba­ Parliament opened its doors to several stu­ go produced a quiz show that currently dents who participated in various activities airs on the Parliament Channel? Filmed in over a two-week tenure at the Office of the 2014, Democracy Challenge sought to test Parliament. They were put through a series competitors' knowledge of parliamentary of tasks that tested their knowledge on Par­ affairs. This programme can be viewed as liament, while competing for the coveted the ultimate 'teaching tool' since all of the title of 'Parliament Apprentice'. These chal­ questions relate to parliamentary practices lenges were filmed and released as a six­ adopted by our Parliament, as well as his­ episode series that airs on the Parliament torical facts about our country's legislature Channel. and parliamentarians. Parliament Outreach - One of the many iCount - This edu-tainment feature of­ initiatives used to educate secondary fers a healthy mix of animation and real-life school students about the work and func­ acting that helps to explain the process of tions of the Parliament is its School Outreach a general election in Trinidad and Tobago. series. This outreach activity involves one iCount also offers an accurate timeline that of the Presiding Officers of Parliament vis­ details the history of voting in our country. iting students at secondary schools across Because of its structure, the programme the country, or hosting students here at the may be suited for a young adult audience, Parliament, to present a lecture on a topic but the information is also useful for older relating to this country's legislature. The en­ adults. tire programme, in addition to a Question Interview Corner - when representatives and Answer segment, is filmed, edited and from Parliaments abroad visit or attend shown on the Parliament Channel. conferences hosted locally, they are often Parliamentary Personalities - This pro­ asked to share details about their visit. This gramme gives a historical look into the lives information is edited and released as a five­ of former parliamentarians - from their time minute feature on the Parliament Channel. spent in the political arena to their accom­ National Youth Parliament (Behind the plishments following their service. Many for­ Scenes) - Students assemble in the Parlia­ mer Presidents, Prime Ministers, Parliamen­ ment Chamber each year to participate tarians and Presiding Officers have already in the National Youth Parliament debate been featured, with new personalities be­ which airs live on the Parliament Chan­ ing revealed each month. nel. This year, the preparation phase of the Parliamentary Updates - This programme debate was transformed into a Reality TV keeps viewers abreast of all the events tak­ programme, which gives viewers an inside ing place in the Parliament. These include 23 Issue 04 ... June - September 2015

conferences attended by our parliamen- the proceedings. tarians, visits by representatives from other Within These Walls - This documentary Parliaments and other parliament-related series outlines the history of several iconic seminars. buildings and landmarks located within the Red House Restoration - when word of city of Port-of-Spain, and their impact on the discovery of bones and historical ar- the local parliamentary and democratic tefacts at the Red House spread through- process. The Red House, White Hall, Presi­ out the country, the Parliament thought it dent's House and Woodford Square are just necessary to inform the public about the a few of the landmarks that are featured in details of the finds. As such, the Red House separate vignettes, which also include in­ Restoration updates were produced. This terviews with leading industry experts. programme takes viewers through the res- Although some of the programmes toration and excavation phase, as the first were produced to target a particular age­ home of the Parliament continues to be group, the content is relevant to persons of renovated. all ages. As one of the many educational Role of the Presiding Officer - as the title tools used to inform the public about par­ suggests, this programme gives an in-depth liamentary affairs, the Parliament Channel analysis into the responsibilities of each Pre- will continue to broadcast new and excit­ siding Officer of Parliament. The informa- ing features in a timely manner. Remember, tion is explained in a simple format, making these new releases, in addition to the ex­ it useful and palatable for all age groups. isting programmes, can also be viewed in Tobago Youth Assembly - Assembly Day their entirety on the Parliament's YouTube celebrations in Tobago are highlighted in page - Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago. this feature on the second edition of the Tobago House of Assembly's Youth Assem­ bly Debate. The spotlight is on the students who argue for and against the topic of self-governance for Tobago, and some of them were interviewed following the de­ PARLIAMENT bate in an effort to get their feedback on -REPUBLlCOFT1UNlDIIDANDTOBAGO---- " 24