News
Ensure your presence in House, UNP MPs told
The absentee MPs were asked to explain why they were not present in the Chamber on September 21 when a vote was taken on a motion to increase the salaries of members of the Independent Commissions. The motion was unanimously passed but only 68 MPs of the 225 MPs from all parties were present when the vote was taken.
Leader of the House and Highways and Higher Education Minister Lakshman Kiriella said many of the UNP MPs had subsequently contacted the Prime Minister and explained the reasons for their absence but all MPs, including Ministers have been reminded that their primary duty on Parliament sitting days is to be present in the House and contribute towards the debate and engage in legislative work.
He said the rest of the UNP lawmakers who were not present that day had obtained prior permission to be absent on that day.
Mr.Kiriella added that all MPs including new entrants are given the opportunity to participate in debates but many are not making use of the opportunity. “Parliament is a place for debate and MPs must remain in the House and raise issues as and when they come up during debates,” he said.
Parliament sits for eight days a month except during the month long sittings in November/December for the Budget debate.