The Provisional Collection of Taxes Order, which will see the legalisation of increases in the price of alcohol and tobacco, as well as hikes in road penalties, was passed in the Lower House of Parliament, Red House, Port of Spain, on Wednesday night without Opposition support.

Finance Minister Karen Nunez-Teshiera winded up the debate just after 10 p.m., stressing that the increase in alcohol was not a revenue raising measure, but was intended to promote healthier lifestyles and curb excessive usage.

However, Opposition MPs were not convinced and in their contribution made a number of suggestions to promote better health.

Caroni East MP Dr Tim Gopeesingh suggested that Government embark on an aggressive advertising campaign against alcohol and tobacco use. He also recommended that a certain percentage be taken from the profits at the National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB) to dedicate towards disease prevention, as is done in Canada, where money from the lottery system is used to fund the Princess Margaret Hospital, which treats cancer patients.

Princes Town MP Subhas Panday suggested that Government set stipulations when giving money to various cultural groups, to ensure that they in turn use the funds to promote nation building and not idolise alcohol. He also suggested that the licence fees for all inclusive fetes be increased.

Opposition chief whip Hamza Rafeeq advised that Government put measures in place to control advertising by tobacco and alcohol companies. He said the type of ads being put out and the time they are broadcasted should be looked at.

Government MPs also voted against an extended speaking time for Fyzabad MP Chandresh Sharma when his allotted period expired. However, he suggested earlier that Government be fair and lend assistance to groups that are working to educate people against alcohol and substance abuse.

Social Development Minister Dr Amery Browne outlined a number of initiatives which the ministry had undertaken to lend support to alcohol and drug abuse prevention. He said the ministry is committed to working with the various NGOs in alleviating this serious problem in the country.

Government Minister Colm Imbert eventually adjourned the sitting of the House to a date to be fixed. The budget debate is expected to commence in the Senate next Tuesday.