About the Senate

The Senate is one of the two chambers that comprise the Parliament of The Bahamas. The Senate is the Upper House while the House of Assembly is the Lower House.

The Senate consists of appointed members referred to as Senators. Senators participate in the consideration of legislation, parliamentary debate and other business before the Parliament.

The Senate provides an important forum for legislative deliberation and examination. Senators consider Bills and other parliamentary business and debate matters of national importance.

The proceedings of the Senate form part of the official public record of the Parliament of The Bahamas.

The Senate conducts its business in accordance with the Constitution of The Bahamas, its Standing Orders and other applicable laws, rules and parliamentary practices.

What the Senate Does

In the capacity of the Upper House; the Senate performs important legislative and deliberative functions within the context of the Parliament of The Bahamas.

Its work includes:

• Considering Bills passed or introduced through the parliamentary process.
• Debating proposed legislation.
• Considering amendments to legislation where applicable.
• Debating motions and matters of public importance.
• Considering reports and other documents presented to the Senate.
• Participating in parliamentary committees.
• Contributing to national debate through parliamentary proceedings.
• Exercising the powers and functions assigned to the Senate under the Constitution and laws of The Bahamas.

Leadership

Senator Hon. J. LaShell Adderley

President of the Senate

The President presides over sittings of the Senate and oversees the conduct of proceedings in accordance with the Constitution, Standing Orders and parliamentary practice.

Senator Hon. Ja’Ann M. Major

Vice-President of the Senate

The Vice-President may preside over proceedings in the absence of the President. The Vice-President may also preside in circumstances provided for by the Constitution and the Senate’s rules of procedure.

Senators

The Senate is composed of appointed Senators who participate in the legislative and deliberative work of Parliament.

Senators contribute to parliamentary debate, consider legislation, participate in committees and undertake other responsibilities assigned to them under the Constitution and parliamentary rules.

The Parliament’s website provides information about current Senators, including their names, parliamentary roles and committee memberships.

Explore the Senate

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Senate?

The Senate is one of the two chambers of the Parliament of The Bahamas and is the appointed chamber.

How many Senators are there?

The Senate currently consists of 16 Senators. 

How are Senators selected?

All Senators are appointed by the Governor General as follows:

1. Nine Senators are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister.
2. Four Senators are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition.
3. Three Senators are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition.

Who presides over the Senate?

The President of the Senate presides over Senate sittings. The current President is Senator Hon. J. LaShell Adderley. 

What is the difference between the Senate and House of Assembly?

The House of Assembly is the elected chamber, while the Senate is the appointed chamber.

Can the Senate introduce Bills?

The Constitution provides that, subject to its provisions and the applicable rules of procedure, a member of either House may introduce a Bill or propose a motion for debate in their respective House. 

Where can I read Senate debates?

Senate debates are available through the Parliament’s Hansard resources.