I would like to thank the Chairperson of the NCOP for his dedication in handling the various matters relating to the Members of Parliament, proof of his success is contained in the ATC of the 2nd June 2008. There are still some important issues to be dealt with, and I hope that the Chairperson will finally achieve his goal to finalise everything before the end of this Parliamentary term.

The most important issue that needs to be finalised urgently by Parliament is the Pension benefits for Members of Parliament. This has been ongoing since 1994. The salary structure of MPs also needs to be urgently reviewed. As some Members are fast approaching 15 years of Parliamentary service, the books needs to be finalised and closed on these outstanding issues, and no gap left open.

There is an urgent need for these things to be legislated, however at the pace finalisation is moving, I do not think that this goal will be reached when we adjourn in 2009 and the whole issue will be carried forward to May 2009 when many new Members of Parliament will be sworn in.

There is a lot happening around the 'Travelgate' issue, however no one appears to know precisely what is going on. Up to now it appears as if the issue has not been dealt with in an even-handed manner. We hope that one day the full truth will prevail and the full picture seen.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Mr A Mzizi MP:
083 440 5951