MP calls for benefit package for family members

Accra, Oct. 8, GNA - A member of Parliament on Friday made an urgent appeal to the Legislature to consider instituting a welfare package for relatives of members of Parliament who pass away while in office.

Mr Kosi Kedem, NDC-Hohoe South, said MPs were virtually living from hand to mouth and it was, therefore, important that provision was made for the security of relatives left behind by Members of the Legislature. The Member, who was contributing to a statement by the Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin on the floor of the House, said it was also crucial that steps were taken to address the retirement needs of MPs as security for their future.

The Minority Leader was paying a glowing tribute to the memory of the late David Mensah, NDC-Atebubu North, who passed away last month. The Minority Leader described the late MP as a humble and affable person, who contributed immensely to the work of the House.

Other members who contributed were of the view that the House had lost the services of an important Member, who served in various committees including that of Government Assurance Committee.

Captain Nkrabeah Effah Dartey (rtd), Deputy Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, urged his colleagues to use the occasion of the funeral service and burial of their colleague to unite the House.

The late MP would be laid to rest on Saturday at Yeji in the Brong Ahafo Region. Mr Mensah, who was serving his third term as an MP, was a veteran politician and a member of the Consultative Assembly that drafted the 1992 Constitution.

Earlier, the Minister of Roads and Transport, Dr Richard Anane was in the House to answer a number of questions related to roadside clearing, replacement of old bridges and re-surfacing of some roads. The Minister said contractors, who were awarded contracts for roadside clearing or grass cutting were required to cut the bush or grass and not to burn them.

He said burning of the grass could cause bush fires, which might damage vegetation, farms and property.

Alhaji Seidu Amadu, NDC-Yapei-Kusawgu, had asked the Minister what action was being taken to ensure that contractors responsible for roadside clearing and ditch and culvert cleaning did not engage in slashing and burning activities.

Dr Anane said road agencies had been directed to ensure that vegetation cleared on roads sides was not burned after slashing or clearing.