Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has proposed that Members of Parliament (MPs) be granted official leave periods, highlighting the intense demands of the role and its impact on personal and family life.
Addressing the House in Accra on Tuesday, October 21, Bagbin pointed out that while MPs are often perceived as being on break during recess, they continue to carry out their parliamentary duties in their constituencies, with no real time for rest.
“MPs don’t go on holidays or vacation. They recede to continue to do the work of MP,” he explained. “I think it is something that we have to consider because the Labour Act expects that you should also have some leave. It is done all over the world.”
The Speaker expressed concern over how the demanding nature of parliamentary work affects lawmakers’ relationships and well-being.
“Those of us who have sacrificed all these years, we know how our families have been destroyed because you never have time for your family, you never have time for people dear to your heart — the people that you grew up with — and sometimes they don’t spare you,” he said.
Bagbin encouraged his colleagues to begin discussions, both within Parliament and with stakeholders outside, to explore the possibility of MPs having designated leave days.
“Please, let’s think over it, discuss with our neighbours outside Parliament, and at least get a few days to have some breathing space — if not to rest, but to share love with your immediate family members.”
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