Media Release Majority of MPs Performed poorly on Bills Contribution A Transparency Solomon Islands survey has shown that very few Members of Parliament regularly contribute to debate on bills that come before parliament. Last week Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) published the MPs attendance list which shows the number of days that each MP has attended Parliament. TSI’s findings shows that many MPs have very good attendance records, however, when it comes to contribution to bills presented in parliament the majority did poorly. The survey has shown that only 7 Members of Parliament have contributed to more than half of the bills debated in the 9th Parliament. The study looks at MPs’ contribution from the 1st Meeting, beginning on 1st October 2010, until 28th of May 2014, the closing date of the 6th meeting. The survey does not cover the recent 7th meeting. In the period of the 1st - 6th meetings, a total of 37 bills were debated “It’s important to note that this research only looks at the number of contributions made by MPs on Bills debated in the floor of parliament”, TSI Executive Officer Daniel Fenua said. “It does not take into account MPs contributions on motions, questions and answers.” MPs’ that have contributed more than 50% on bills debated are: 1. MP for North East Choiseul, Hon. Manasseh Sogavere attended all 37 bills and has contributed 36 times. 2. MP for West Are’ are, Hon. John Maneniaru , contributed 24 times to 37 bills. 3. MP for North East Guadalcanal, Hon. Dr. Derek Sikua also contributed 24 times. 4. Prime Minister and MP for Gizo Kolombangara, Hon. Gordon Dalcy Lilo contributed 22 times. 5. Small Malaita MP, Hon. Rick Houenipwela contributed 22 times. 6. MP for Aoke Langalanga Hon. Matthew Cooper contributed 20 times 7. Central Guadalcanal MP, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka has contributed 18 times. “Thumps up to these MPs for their efforts and showing what MPs should do when they are in Parliament,” Mr. Fenua added. Special credit goes out to Hon. Manasseh Sogavare who has topped the MPs’ attendance and contribution list in the two consecutive parliamentary terms,” Mr Fenua said. In contrast it is very sad to note that a total of 40 MPs excluding 4 constituency namely ,Baegu Asifola, North Malaita, Ngella and Shortlands which gone through by-election have performed below 50% on contribution to bills. Also the survey found out that a total of 7 MPs have not made any comment. “It is very disappointing to see that though some have attended almost the entire time but yet did not make effort to contribute on bills presented on the floor of parliament.”Mr. Fenua said. Though, TSI understands that according to the Parliament Standing Orders, it is not a requirement for all MPs’ to contribute in the debates. “But on the other hand, it is important to understand that the prime role of a MP is to legislate, therefore as a Parliamentarian such contributions may not necessarily be confined to Cabinet meetings or Parliamentary Committee Meetings only.” “One has to show his constituents that he or she has the courage to speak and contribute during debates.” Mr. Fenua stated. Mr. Fenua says that TSI has grave concerns over MPs’ performance. “The country needs leaders who can inspire, lead and performed their true role as Members of Parliament.” He said. As the election approaches, voters need to be serious and use their vote wisely in the coming election. If you like access to these MPs Performance Assessments, you can contact TSI on phone 28319 or visit us on Hyundai Mall Room 226 (Second Floor). Attached below is the full MPs contribution on bills list.
Posted on: Fri, 19 Sep 2014 02:47:49 +0000
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