Police were out in force at the gates of the House of Assembly yesterday as Parliament kicked back into action for the first time since November 25.

There was little sign of protesters throughout the day, which came as no surprise given that legislation over the contentious airport redevelopment has been deferred until next Friday.

Barricades in Parliament Street’s eastern lane went up in the early hours, with police officers in position throughout the day, and many police vans and trucks in the area surrounding Sessions House.

Regular House matters got under way at 10am, with Neville Tyrrell, the newly elected Progressive Labour Party MP for Warwick South Central, swearing the oath of allegiance.

Items up for discussion included legislation for the America’s Cup, gaming and immigration.

The last scheduled House sitting, on December 2, sparked confrontations that culminated in protesters against the airport redevelopment being pepper-sprayed by police officers.

Police have said a more thorough plan is in place to prevent a repeat when that issue returns to the agenda.