‘Wale says our economy cannot handle the pressure’
OUTSPOKEN Leader of the Opposition and Member of Parliament for Aoke/Langalanga out rightly says the Parliamentary Entitlement Commission (PEC) should not consider any increase in Members of Parliament (MPs) entitlement.
He made this profound statement after the media reported that the Government has proposed a massive increases in MPs salaries, terminal grants and clothing allowances.
The Solomon Star has obtained a draft of the proposed changes, which would see new salary rates for MP, including the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers.
These changes are expected to come into effect from April next year.
But when the Solomon Star seek the Opposition Leader stand on this, Wale said firstly it was not an increase.
“It was a proposal from government Caucus containing their submissions to the Parliamentary Entitlements Commission (PEC).”
But in the current economic hardships Wale said the government should consider the economic factors the country is facing now.
“I do not think its wise the PEC should consider any increases in MPs’ entitlements.
“The economy cannot handle this pressure.
“Also public service is under recruitment freeze and no pay increase.
“All these need to be taken together to give a clear picture,” Wale told this paper yesterday.
According to the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) the impact of Covid-19 will affect almost all sectors of the Solomon Islands economy.
This paper understands that PEC will soon seek public views on the proposed increase to MPs entitlements.
The Commission is the constitutional body that administers the entitlement of Members of Parliament (MPs).
The Secretary to the Commission, Derek Vagi has clarified that the proposed increase to MPs entitlements are mere proposals and not finalised.
Vagi said the Commission is yet to consult with relevant stakeholders on these proposals to gauge their views before a decision is made.
By ANDREW FANASIA
Newsroom, Honiara
