(Trinidad Guardian) People’s National Movement (PNM) leader Keith Rowley has been referred to Parliament’s Privileges Committee by House Speaker Wade Mark, over allegations recently made by Rowley against Finance Minister Larry Howai.
Mark gave the ruling during yesterday afternoon’s Parliament session. The ruling came after Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar requested Rowley be taken to the Privileges committee for contempt of Parliament in making “reckless” statements about Howai in the recent debate on a motion of censure against Howai. The PM said Rowley knew or ought to have known the statement he was reading from was false, inaccurate and damaging.
Mark said it was not for him as Speaker to determine whether a contempt had been committed.
“I’ve given this matter careful, serious consideration. I’ve examined the Hansard in detail and I’m of the view this matter warrants further investigation. I rule that, prima facie, a sufficient case of breach of privilege has been established. I therefore refer the matter to the Privileges Committee for full investigation and report.”
Mark denied Rowley’s request for Energy Minister Kevin Ramnarine to be referred to the Privileges Committee for an inaccurate remark on April 17. Mark noted Ramnarine corrected the remark at the first opportunity.
