2.5 Parliamentary Reform

2.5 Parliamentary Reform

We are also forwarding a set of proposals for Parliamentary reform, intended to result in a leaner, less costly and more efficient parliament:

• Reduce the number of members of Parliament to 45. • There should be a maximum of 8 Ministers. • MPs post will be full-time, and remunerated at not less than €55k per annum. • Parliamentary Secretaries will be remunerated at not less than €65k per annum plus current perks. • Ministers will be remunerated at not less than €85k per annum plus current perks. • The Prime Minister will be remunerated at not less than €110k per annum plus current perks. • MPs will not hold other positions in government entities, nor have interest in private sector companies which could create a conflict of interest with their duties as MPs. • Parties may appoint technocrats to serve in Parliament. Although this proposal is still not yet generally accepted, one notes that there are currently quite a few members of Parliament who have not contested general elections, with some of them doing quite a decent job in their appointment. Certain safeguards still need to be introduced to avoid any possible abuse

The amounts mentioned above are considered to be minimum remuneration rates, and based on market rates in the private sector of persons holding positions of equivalent responsibilities.

Let us stop fooling ourselves. The official rates of remuneration to members of Parliament are insufficient to attract the best element to lead the country. The previous administration tried to address this issue in a poorly handled exercise that was ultimately counterproductive. The current administration addresses this situation by showering its MPs with generous add-ons to their official package. Poor performers are also rewarded by lucrative severance packages and appointments as persons of trust instead of being kicked out.