The PNM meets this week to start dealing with recent issues concerning the operation of its parliamentary caucus, despite the absence of PNM MP Patrick Manning, according to party chairman Franklin Khan.Khan confirmed the situation yesterday. Manning has gone to Cuba for a check-up.The PNM's last General Council a month ago had mandated the executive to work out the caucus' operational issues after several MPs broke party ranks and voted in support of a motion Manning had in the Parliament last month.This concerned his matter with Parliament's Privileges Committee.The motion was defeated due to lack of Government - and Opposition - support.PNM leader Keith Rowley and three other MPs abstained from voting according to a decision PNM's caucus had mandated prior to debate of the motion. MP Pat McIntosh, who was one PNM MP who broke ranks, claimed Rowley had told her in Parliament to vote as she liked.
The issue had caused the General Council's last session - the first under the recently elected executive - is expected to be stormy.Although the Council had mandated the caucus to "fix its business" and report by the upcoming council meeting, due Saturday, movement was stalled since Rowley was overseas recently. He returned last week.Yesterday Khan said Manning's absence was not a problem, "We intend to meet one-on-one with Mr Manning," Khan added.Khan, who said the situation was a little complex, said a partial report would be delivered to PNM's council on Saturday. (Gail Alexander)