TMA worried about MPs absence from sessions

Tema, Oct. 30, GNA- Members of the Tema Municipal Assembly (TMA) on Thursday expressed concern about the continued absence from the assembly sittings by the Members of Parliament of the four constituencies in the Tema Municipality.

They are Mr Abrahman Ossei Aidoo, for Tema West, Madam Naa Afieye Ashong for Kpone/Katamanso, Mr Emmanuel Teye for Ashaiman and Mr Ishmael Ashitey representing Tema East.

After a lengthy debate at its second ordinary general assembly meeting, the house agreed that the four MPs be served with letters for them to explain why they had continuously refused to attend meetings. Nii Dortey Abotsi, the Presiding Member said though the MPs who are ex-officio members of the house do not attend meetings, they continued to draw their allowances, describing the situation as improper.

"The MPs do not attend meetings to contribute to any discussions, they do not visit us, so we will find out whether it is deliberate on their part", Nii Abotsi said.

Naa Afieye explained that she always got letters inviting her to assembly sittings very late, adding that at times, she received her letters after the session.

Mr Osei Owusu, a government appointee and secretary to Mr Aidoo said the MP does not collect allowance from the assembly. He therefore urged the Assembly's officials to find out who had been collecting Mr Aidoo's allowances.

The house called for a review of the bylaw on rearing of domestic animals in a residential area.

The request was made after the Environmental Officer, Mr Emmanuel Mensah, informed the house that 10 animals could be reared in a household.