MPs handed over parliamentary gadgets – FBC News

MPs will now keep gadgets received at the beginning of the term, including mobile phones, laptops and iPads.

This move, part of a motion passed in Parliament last night, aims to give MPs the tools they need to carry out their duties effectively.

Remuneration committee chairperson Lynda Tabuya also stressed the importance of these gadgets in enabling parliamentarians to do their jobs efficiently.

She emphasized that parliamentarians have the right to keep these gadgets even after the end of their term in parliament.

The proposal also refers to allowances for key officials in parliament.

Approved giving the Deputy Speaker of Parliament an annual allowance of $15,000, recognizing the significant role he plays in presiding over meetings of Parliament in the absence of the Speaker.

The government affairs leader will receive an annual allowance of $7,000 for his role in coordinating government work during parliamentary sessions.

Approved the position of Deputy Whip in the Legislature to receive an annual allowance of $3,000.

Maternity leave for MPs has also been approved, in a move aimed at encouraging more women to run for elected office.

Chairperson of the Remuneration Committee Lynda Tabuya (Source: Parliament of the Republic of Fiji/Facebook)

It was proposed that this leave be determined in accordance with the national system of this type of benefits.

Tabuya also discussed proposed changes to the Parliamentary Pension Benefits Act 1989.

The proposal recommended several amendments to adapt the Act to the changing economic and social landscape of the country.

This included reducing the maximum length of service qualifying for a pension from 15 to 12 years, in line with the standard four-year parliamentary term.

Other issues raised in the proposal included the issue of ‘double dipping’, the spouse’s entitlement to superannuation benefits and the appointment of a Gratuity Administrator.

Tabuya stressed the need for transparency and fairness in the administration of pension benefits, calling for further discussion on some aspects of the bill.