Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to consider introducing formal vacations in the parliamentary calendar to allow lawmakers time to rest and reconnect with their families.
The Speaker noted that the current system, which allows MPs only to ‘recede’ from plenary sessions rather than go on formal recess, denies them adequate time for rest and family life.
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“We say recess. They recede from the plenary session to engage in the other functions of the House outside the plenary session. So Members of Parliament don’t go on holidays or vacations — they work continuously,” Speaker Bagbin explained.
Holidays and vacations
Speaking during his opening remarks on Tuesday, as Parliament reconvened for the third meeting of the first session of the Ninth Parliament, the Speaker described the situation as unsustainable, stressing that even legislators deserve a structured break as provided for under Ghana’s Labour Act.
“I think it’s something we have to consider because the Labour Act expects that you should also have some leave. This is done all over the world. Members of Parliament have leave periods, so they can rest,” he said.
Mr. Bagbin lamented the toll parliamentary work takes on personal relationships, revealing that the intense demands of the job often destroy family life.
“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. Please, let’s think over it,” he urged.
He encouraged MPs to discuss the idea with colleagues and stakeholders, emphasizing the need for a balance between public service and personal well-being.
“Discuss with our neighbours outside Parliament and at least get a few days to have some breathing space — if not to rest, then to share love with your immediate family members,” he advised.