Educate public on the role of MPs

Accra, Jan 22,GNA - Mr Felix Owusu-Adjapong, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs-Designate, on Friday said there was the need to educate the public on the role and work of Members of Parliament (MP) so as to change the perception that they were responsible for development and daily upkeep of their constituents.

He said most people thought it was the duty of an MP to provide the infrastructure development and cater for the financial need of his or her area from his own resources.

Mr Owusu-Adjapong made this suggestion in an answer to a question by Mr E.T. Mensah during the Vetting of Ministers of State-Designate by the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on Friday.

"There is need to organise workshops and seminars, as well as using the unit committees and assembly men and women to educate the public.

"They should be made aware that the development of an area involves the collaboration between the District Chief Executives, MPs and the Administrator of the District Assemblies' Common Fund." On how he performed during the past two years as the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Mr Owusu-Adjapong said he was able to source for HIPC Funds for the construction of an office block to House the Committees of Parliament and other needs of the House.

"As you are aware I have also recommended the working out of a loan for the rehabilitation of the Tower Block and if I get the nod, I will ensure the projects take off as soon as the funds is made available.

"I also believe the problem of accommodation for MPs could be solved by the construction of a Parliamentary village to cater for MPs." On his plans to make the House safe, Mr Owusu-Adjapong said he was working with the Interior Minister and the Speaker of Parliament to acquire and install security systems as well as placing the Police permanently on the premises.