In a bid to ensure the financial security of retired parliamentarians, the Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Mahama Ayariga, has proposed the establishment of a pension scheme funded by carbon credit revenues.
This innovative approach, according to him, aims to reduce the burden on taxpayers while promoting environmental sustainability.
Delivering a statement on the Floor of Parliament on Wednesday, Mr Ayariga said: “Mr Speaker, a pension scheme for parliamentarians is not only a moral imperative but also a necessary step to ensure that those who have dedicated their lives to public service are taken care of.”
He emphasised that this proposal was not self-serving, but rather a necessary step to strengthen the institution of parliament.
The proposed scheme would provide a predictable income stream for retired parliamentarians, allowing them to live with dignity and security.
Mr Ayariga noted that many countries, including the United Kingdom and Kenya, had pension schemes for their lawmakers, recognising the importance of attracting and retaining top talent in public service.
He added that the funding mechanism, based on carbon credit revenues, was expected to promote environmental sustainability in Ghana.
As Mr Ayariga explained, “… Mr Speaker, when the pensions of parliamentarians begin to depend on carbon credits, I believe we will be ushering Ghana into a new era of environmental sustainability,” he said.
The proposal has, therefore, been referred to a committee to consider the setting up of a pension scheme for all retired parliamentarians based on financing from carbon credit revenues and other sources not based mainly on taxpayer financing by Mr Andrew Asiamah Amoako, the Second Deputy Speaker who presided over proceedings.
As Mr Ayariga concluded, he called on his colleagues to support the proposal.
“Mr Speaker, I urge my fellow parliamentarians to support this proposal and work towards creating a more independent-minded parliamentarian. Together, we can make Ghana great again.”
Commenting on the statement, other Members of Parliament said the call was timely, particularly when their lives after serving the country mostly got burdensome.
“… Mr Speaker, it becomes worrying when some past colleagues will call to ask for GH¢200 to argument the purchase of their medications,” Mr Patrick Boamah, New Patriotic MP for Okaikwei Central said.
GNA