Today, Tuesday, 23rd July 2024, Honourable Senators gathered in the National Assembly Chamber in Belmopan City for a Sitting of the Senate. The meeting began at 9:01 A.M. with the Belizean National Prayer offered by the Honourable, Senator Michael Peyrefitte.
After prayers, Senator Mark O’Brien and Senator Dr. Elma Kay both subscribed to the Oath and Affirmation of Allegiance as Temporary Senators.
The Honourable President of the Senate announced that Senator Antonio Herrera sent apologies for his absence due to health reasons.
Following the President’s announcement was the introduction of SEVEN (7) Bills by the Leader of Government Business, Senator, the Honourable Eamon Courtenay as follows:
- Fiscal Incentives (Amendment) Bill, 2024;
- Southern Deep Port Development Facility Bill, 2024;
- Millenium Challenge Account – Belize Authority Bill, 2024;
- National Security Council Bill, 2024;
- Insurance (Amendment) Bill, 2024;
- Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill, 2024; and
- Disabilities Bill, 2024.
During this Sitting of the Senate, the Paper, No. 82/1/14 – Public Utilities Commission (Request for Proposals) Regulations, 2024, was ordered to lie on the Table.
On the Agenda for this Sitting, FIVE (5) Motions were presented, discussed, and ratified by the Senate as follows:
- Resolution Authorizing the Ratification by Belize of the Convention of the Latin American and Caribbean Space Agency (ALCE) Motion, 2024.
- Resolution Approving the Re-Appointment of the Members of the Integrity Commission Motion, 2024.
- Resolution Extending the Proclamation Declaring a State of Public Emergency in Certain Parts of Belize City and Certain Parts of the Cayo District Motion, 2024.
- Inter-American Development Bank – Sustainable and Inclusive Urban Development Program – (US$10 Million) Loan Motion, 2024.
- Inter-American Development Bank – Improving Efficiency, Quality, and Access in Belize’s Health System – (US$14 Million) Loan Motion, 2024.
Of the EIGHT (8) Bills listed on the Orders of the Day for today’s Sitting, ONE (1), the Trade Licensing Bill, 2022, was passed by the Senate with amendments.
Before the adjournment of the Sitting, the honourable President of the Senate made a brief statement recognizing the Former Clerk, Mr. Eddie Webster, for his service to the National Assembly. The Leader of Government Business joined the President in commending the Former Clerk for his professionalism, ability to assist Members of Parliament, and exceptional interpretation of the Standing Orders. Hereon, the Lead Opposition Senator complimented the Former Clerk on his ability to remain neutral and assist Parliamentarians with the ways of the Parliamentary environment. Other Senators used the opportunity to share their remarks on working with the Former Clerk.
Lastly the Honourable President of the Senate informed that the Senate now proceed with its six-week recess which will conclude on Wednesday, 4th September 2024 unless the Leader of Government Business indicates the need for a meeting. It was also announced that the National Assembly commences its moving operations to the George Price Centre effective Thursday, 1st August 2024 to accommodate the planned renovations of the National Assembly Building over the next 14 months
This covers the events of the Special Sitting of the Senate meeting which was adjourned at 5:37 P.M.
For access to the Orders of the Day, please see the link below:
For access to the live broadcast, please see the link below:
https://www.youtube.com/live/7CNPSHbtRDs?si=ucEtMmNtg2knefHv
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/368iQFusjAMQzSsm/?mibextid=qi2Omg
For access to the Motions passed, kindly see the links below:
https://www.nationalassembly.gov.bz/house-senate-motions-2024/