Georgian parliament comes back to attend to business

After being forced to shut down for two months by opposition protests, the Georgian parliament held its first full session in the parliament building in Tbilisi today, RIA Novosti reported. Meanwhile, the opposition is continuing its actions, which began April 9. The square in front of the parliament building has been one of the central sites for opposition actions.

One hundred one MPs were present at the session, which had an agenda of 101 points. Speaker of the parliament Davit Bakradze stated that so many issues demand attention that the unicameral parliament must work in spite of the inconvenience caused by the protests.

He listed among the most pressing matters before the legislators bills concerning age requirements in educational institutions, prisoners’ rights to visitation and budget amendments to subsidize the wine industry and provide aid to refugees.

“I hope we can avoid excessive emotions and incidents through joint efforts,” Bakradze said regarding the opposition, which had stated in advance that it would picket the parliament while it was in session. The lawmakers gathered at 8:00 a.m., however, earlier than the opposition was able to greet them.

After the session, Bakradze's car was kicked and struck by protesters, Lenta.ru writes.