General News of Saturday, 28 July 2001

Source: GNA

Second meeting of Parliament ends

The Second Meeting of the first term of the third Parliament of Ghana on Friday went on recess after about three months of its normal sessions.

Mr Alban Bagbin, Deputy Minority leader said neither the Majority nor Minority can claim to have any advantage of strength in the discussions and debates of the House but that it was gratifying that consensus building has been the guiding principle.

He said the level of co-operation amongst members of the House had been encouraging and that he was confident that with the minority changing positively the majority too has to change progressively.

The Minority Leader said both sides have appreciated the efforts and contributions of the Speaker in bringing order to a rather difficult and sometimes uncompromising House.

Mr Bagbin said the problems facing the Members have sometimes been trying and challenging but he was optimistic that following the level of co-operation members would be up to the task.

He also thanked the media for playing their role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm and said even though there had been a number of disagreements about certain reports, the media has played its role.

Mr J.H. Mensah, The Majority Leader said Parliament has been able to assist the executive to save a substantial amount of money, which could be used judiciously in its development programmes.

He said members should be looking forward to the completion of certain projects, which are essential to the socio-economic development of the country.

Mr Mensah entreated the Media to be fully involved in the work of Members of Parliament not only in the House but also at the constituency level to highlight their contributions.

Mr Peter Ala Adjetey, the Speaker, said even though it seems he has been accused of over participating in the proceedings of the house he has done that in the substance of issues and only offers guidance in matters of technical relevance.

He commended members for their show of commitment to ensure the completion of business of the meeting and called for its sustenance.

The Speaker also commended the Media personnel for assisting the house in playing its expected role.