Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has called for the introduction of a formal leave system for Members of Parliament (MPs), warning that the current schedule places a heavy toll on their health and family lives.
Opening Tuesday’s sitting to mark the start of the third meeting of the first session of the Ninth Parliament, Mr. Bagbin explained that MPs technically do not go on holidays or vacations, as their “recess” only allows them to shift from plenary duties to other parliamentary functions.
“We say recess. They recede from plenary sessions to engage in other functions of the House outside plenary sessions,” the Speaker said. “So Members of Parliament don’t go on holidays or vacations. They recede to continue to do the work of a Member of Parliament.”
He noted that the Labour Act mandates some form of rest for all workers, urging MPs to consider adopting similar provisions for themselves.
“It’s something we have to consider because the Labour Act expects that you should also have some leave. In other jurisdictions, Members of Parliament have leave so they can rest,” Mr. Bagbin added.
The Speaker spoke candidly about the personal cost of parliamentary work, describing how the absence of rest has affected family bonds over the years.
“Those of us who have sacrificed all these years know how our families have been destroyed because you never have time for your family or those dear to your heart. Let’s think over it and find a few days to breathe, if not to rest, then to share love with our families,” he said.
