Debates of 12 Dec 2014

MR SPEAKER
PRAYERS 11 a.m.
VOTES AND PROCEEDINGS AND THE OFFICIAL REPORT 11 a.m.
Mr Speaker 11 a.m.
Hon Members, Correction of the Votes and Proceedings of Thursday, 11th December, 2014.
Page 1 … 7 --
Ms Grace Addo 11 a.m.
Mr Speaker, yesterday, I was here till about 20 minutes before adjournment but I have been marked absent on page (7) under item number (5).
Mr Speaker 11 a.m.
Very well.

Hon Members, the Votes and Proceed- ings of Thursday, 11th December, 2014 as corrected are hereby adopted as the true record of proceedings.
  • [No correction was made to the Official Report of Tuesday, 2nd December, 2014.]
    • Mr Alfred K. Agbesi 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Hon Majority Leader and Chairman of the Business Committee has just been called

    to an emergency meeting. He would want to present the Business Statement himself. So, we would vary the order of Business and to stand down the Business Statement pending his arrival.
    Dr Matthew O. Prempeh 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, ordinarily, we should not have a problem, but this is a weird arrangement. I thought there was a Vice Chairman of the Business Committee. Unless we can be given the extenuative circumstances for which reason we should wait, it is probably out of order.
    So, what particularly is it, that the Vice Chairman cannot present it, so that we can continue with the business? It is a very, very blurred thing that the Hon Majority Leader wants to lead the Speaker down that lane; he should give us more reasons.
    Mr Agbesi 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, we are asking your permission to vary the order of Business for some reason. That is why I said the Hon Majority Leader had just stepped out but he would soon be in the House.
    Mr Speaker 11 a.m.
    How soon is he coming? This is because I would be leaving the Chair soon and I would want to take the Business Statement before I leave?
    Mr Agbesi 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, in not more than 20 minutes, he should be in the House.
    Mr Speaker 11 a.m.
    Well, Hon Members, let us give sometime to the Hon Majority Leader. After 20 minutes, we would decide what to do.
    Now, we move to the Commencement of Public Business.
    Mr Agbesi 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, if we can take item number 5(b).
    Mr Speaker 11 a.m.
    Is it all the items under number 5(b)?
    Mr Agbesi 11 a.m.
    Item (iii) and (iv) under item number (5).
    rose
    Mr Speaker 11 a.m.
    Very well.
    Mr Agbesi 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, we are sorry; item number 5(b) (i), the Chairman of the Committee is not in the House.
    Mr Speaker, we are sorry; if you can go to item number 5(c)(i).
    Mr Speaker 11 a.m.
    Please, Hon Deputy Majority Leader, time is not on our side. Are those reports ready? And if they are ready, do we have any member of the Committee on Mines and Energy here to lay them on behalf of the Chairman of the Committee?
    rose
    Mr Speaker 11 a.m.
    Hon Member for Manhyia South?
    Dr Prempeh 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, you really have to probably caution Hon Members to attend to the estimates. This is because the Papers that they are ready to bring are contracts and not the estimates, which are of importance to these sessions. And when we go to meetings, we do not find the Hon Ministers.
    When you look at the first order, the Hon Attorney-General and Minister for Justice-- yesterday, the Hon Minister for Education -- They just do not -- the Hon Minister for Energy and Petroleum is particularly always here but the other Hon Ministers, we do not find them to push their estimates. Mr Speaker, it is making work very difficult. This whole week --
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Hon Member for Manhyia South, you are out of order. It is a legitimate point which is being made at the wrong time.
    rose
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Yes, Hon Member?
    Dr A. A. Osei 11:10 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I need your guidance. For example, on page 14 of the Order Paper, there are some Motions to be moved, and even the Papers for those Motions have not been laid. What is going on? Motion for a Resolution that the Paper has not even been laid -- that is why the Hon Chairman got up.
    Look at item number 40 -- Resolution. That was why the Hon Chairman got up because the Paper needs to be laid before we go through it. It is not even here. There, it is itemised for a Resolution on that. There is something wrong; how do we get this here? I did not say --
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Hon Member for Old Tafo, we are not there yet. When we get there, and you want to take an issue with that, we can listen to you.
    Hon Deputy Majority Leader, I asked you a simple question. I would want to find out from you whether these reports are there, and if they are there, let us lay them.
    Mr Agbesi 11:10 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, the reports are ready, and a member of the Committee is here, that is the Chief Whip, and he will lay the reports as a member of the Committee.
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Hon Chief Whip, are the reports ready, since you are a member of the Committee on Mines and Energy.
    Alhaji Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka 11:10 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I am a member of the Committee and it is unfortunate that the Hon Chairman is not here. We do not want to set a bad precedent, because this Agreement that was referred to us was only supposed to go to the Finance Committee. It was supposed to be dealt with by only the Finance Committee. [Interruptions] -- Please! Please! -- It has never been done in the past, and therefore, at the Committee level, when we met, there was an understanding that because it has never been done, we should not try to do it this time, but we should come to the floor --
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Hon Members, yesterday, in my office, the Hon Chairman of the Committee came to see me, together with the Hon Ranking Member for the Committee on Mines and Energy. According to them, the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Agreement that was laid and subsequently referred to the appropriate Committee, that is the Committee on Mines and Energy, for consideration and report, they do not buy it.
    By the practice so far, the House has not been approving them. I found out from them whether Government of Ghana is a party to that transaction, and they told me that Government of Ghana is not. I then told them that they should submit a report -- I told them there are two things that they could do; one, is to submit a report on that matter as a House for us to take a decision. That was what I told them, that if that is the view of the Committee, then the Committee should bring its report for the House to take a decision.
    So, Hon Members, these are not matters that we should -- They left my Office, assuring me that they were going to bring a report to that effect. So, let us wait, if the report is available, then let us have it. We can then argue it on the floor of the House, and the House would take a decision. So, if the report is ready, let us lay it.
    Alhaji Muntaka 11:10 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, with your kind permission, since we have so much other businesses, I would plead that we stand this issue down, and get the Hon Chairman for the Committee on Mines and Energy to be in the Chamber to help while we proceed with other business.
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Hon Majority Chief Whip, yes, we would want to proceed with business; but do we have these reports ready, so that we can lay them?
    Alhaji Muntaka 11:10 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, that report is ready and it can be laid, so that later, when --
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Yes, if the reports are ready, they can be laid. When we get to the item, the House can debate them and take a decision.
    Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah 11:10 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, the point that we made earlier is very important, but I wanted to stress that the only reason we are here, is because of the Government's support and concern and the tax exempts, but that actually were properly referred to the Finance Committee.
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Hon Member, is the Committee's Report ready? It is a very simple question that I have been asking all this while. It is a very simple question. If it is ready -- [Pause] -- [Interruptions]
    Chairman of the Committee on Mines and Energy --
    Dr Kwabena Donkor 11:10 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, your Committee realised that the referral to us did not warrant our bringing a report before the House. As per normal procedure, power Agreements do not come to Parliament, but it is the Government's consent and support Agreement that comes to Parliament.
    Power and the exemptions, power purchase Agreements are among private entities and there is no obligation on the Government of Ghana. So, historically, they have never come to Parliament.
    Mr Speaker 11:10 a.m.
    Hon Chairman of the Committee, you and the Ranking Member were in my Office yesterday. When you raised this issue, I told you that there were two things to do. If that is the thinking of the Committee, then -- If you think so, then you may advise the Hon Minister to withdraw it.
    This is because I have done the referral. So, it is on records or if it is not withdrawn, then the Committee must submit a report to this effect, for the House to take a decision on the matter. This is because as of now, there is a referral before you. So, either it is withdrawn, or you make a report to that effect, with respect to what you have just told me, and that could be the Committee's Report for the House to agree or disagree with the Committee on this matter.
    Are you bringing the report?
    Dr Donkor 11:10 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, this under- standing was raised yesterday evening, but I have not had the opportunity until now to consult the Hon Minister officially as to the withdrawal. The Committee would be meeting today and we would consider that piece of advice.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    rose
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Yes, Hon Member?
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 11:20 a.m.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    It does not lie with any Hon Member to even suggest that a referral is not appropriate. The document has been laid before the House and it has been properly referred to the Committee. The Committee ought to submit a report.
    Mr Speaker, I am even surprised that they came to see you. They should have seen Leadership, not Mr Speaker. We deal with matters relating to Business on the floor through the Leadership -- because there is the Hon Majority Leader and Leader of Govern-ment Business.
    Mr Speaker, the Hon Chairman of the Mines and Energy Committee may hold a view, which may not be shared by Hon Members. Certainly, there is the need for a report; and I am surprised, because with power purchase Agreement I do not know whether there is no undertaking that Government would not interfere with the fixing of the price and so on. But that is an obligation on the part of Government.
    But be that as it may, it has been referred to them, it has been laid by the Hon Minister before the House, probably, out of abundance of caution.
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Please, Hon Member for Secondi, if there is a referral that the document was laid, then it was laid in error. Based on that referral, there are two things that we do in this House; we either come to withdraw it -- but once it is not withdrawn, the Committee is bound --
    Hon Member for Sekondi, if there was a referral or document laid, it was done in error. Based on that referral, there are two things that we do in this House. They will
    Mr Agbesi 11:20 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I wanted to apply that we defer this one and go to item number 5 (c) (i) on page two.
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Hon Members, item number 5 (c) (i).
    PAPERS 11:20 a.m.
    Mr Agbesi 11:20 a.m.
    With your permission, Mr Speaker, there is an Addendum Order Paper. Can we take the Presentation of Papers contained in the Addendum?
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Let us exhaust the original Order Paper by laying the Papers first before we move to the Addendum.
    You should tell the House whether we are laying any of these Papers now or we will defer them before you refer to the Addendum Order Paper.
    Mr Agbesi 11:20 a.m.
    Very well, Mr Speaker.
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Is any report ready?
    Mr Agbesi 11:20 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, not all of them are ready to be laid -- [Interruption] -- So, we would want to defer them.
    Mr Speaker, that is the reason we would want to go to the Addendum Order Paper.
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Hon Deputy Majority Leader, what is happening?
    Mr Agbesi 11:20 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, most of the items contained on the main Order Paper are either being printed or at the Committee level, yet to be completed.
    Mr Dominic B. A. Nitiwul 11:20 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I am happy you asked that question. I do not understand what is going on.
    Apart from the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Energy and Petroleum, who regularly come here when their issues are before us, the others are not here; they do not come.
    Budget time -- money -- so that they can do their work, they will not come; the Hon Ministers do not come.
    There are two things; either they do not take this House serious or they do not know the value of what the budget is. And then, every time, the Hon Deputy Majority Leader or the Hon Majority Leader will have to give excuses for them.
    Mr Speaker, how long can this continue?
    We come here and all the reports are not ready. It is either the estimates are not there or the reports are not ready. So, what are we here for?
    We have just one week to rise and the Hon Ministers are not here. Look at the House, they are not here.
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Yes?
    Alhaji Muntaka 11:20 a.m.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    It is unfortunate the comment that came from the Hon Deputy Minority Leader.
    Mr Speaker, Hon Ministers who have been requested to meet us have done so. Mr Speaker, I would like him to go to the printing room and see how we are struggling to get all the reports printed.
    Mr Speaker, most of these Committees have met and the reports are being prepared. The challenge we have in this House, if you would remember, we have said that if the reports are not ready and enough copies are not at hand, let us not lay them. This is because the moment a report is laid, it is supposed to be distributed.
    Mr Speaker, the printing room is very busy. This is because we are trying to get some of them ready. We are very sure that as we move along, we will come back to lay them because some will be ready.
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Before the Hon Member for Sekondi, Hon Majority Chief Whip, I know you are a very hardworking Whip -- [Interruption.] Are you satisfied that as we sit here this morning, only one estimates has been laid?
    Based on the programme of the Business Committee, only one estimates has been laid as we speak. Look at pages 2, 3, 4 and 5. Are you satisfied?
    Alhaji Muntaka 11:20 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, as you might know, our Hon Colleagues on the Finance Committee attest to this fact. We had to call them to stop a meeting they were holding, because we had planned that we would take the activities of the Finance Committee, so that they can go back.
    Mr Speaker, the Hon Chairman and the Hon Ranking Member of the Committee are here. They were in a meeting when we pleaded with them to stop and come over. So, the strategy was to deal with the Finance Committee's issues, so that when they withdraw, we will continue with the others.
    Mr Speaker 11:20 a.m.
    Hon Member for Sekondi?
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 11:20 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I would not have made any comment on this matter had it not been for the statement of the Hon Majority Chief Whip.
    Mr Speaker, I am a member of the Committee on Education. If you look at page 4, item n, there is a Report on the Annual Budget Estimate, which is supposed to be laid. As of now, the estimates have not been distributed to Hon Members for us to even meet. So, certainly, there must be -- I have been asking the Hon Chairman and the Hon Vice Chairman when the estimates will come for us to study. Mr Speaker, probably, the Hon Majority Chief Whip should not have made such a sweeping statement.
    Mr Speaker, it may be that they may have some peculiar problem. But I can attest to the fact that with regard to education, such a big Ministry, Hon Members have not received estimates as we sit here, but the report had been listed to be laid. I do not know -- certainly, there must be something that we should do. So,
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 11:20 a.m.


    please -- to the Hon Majority Chief Whip, we all appreciate that we have difficulties when it comes to these times, but to say that all reports are ready and being printed -- [Interruption] -- I see. He is now amending it.
    Alhaji Muntaka 11:20 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, this morning, I was with the Hon Finance Minister and his deputy.
    Mr Speaker, we are expected to have about forty-two (42) estimates. As I speak, thirty-eight (38) are in the House, only three are left. Yes, the estimates on the Ministry of Education are one of those outstanding.
    Mr Speaker, my Hon Senior Colleague, Papa Owusu-Ankomah is a member of the Finance Committee. He will attest to the fact that almost all the estimates that the Finance Committee needs to do its work have been provided. He will also attest to the fact that not all the reports are here. This is because many of them are in queue in the printing room.
    I am not saying that everything is rosy. But we have more than enough to enable us do the business of the day. If we listen to ourselves, and the way things have been arranged, by the time we finish with the business that we have, some Motions will be ready with the Finance Committee, of which Papa Owusu-Ankomah is a member. He remembers that they were in a meeting when we called them to come in, so that they can deal with them and go back.
    Mr Speaker, the business will flow smoothly. This is because, as I speak, the Report of the Committee on Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs is almost done. So, we can lay that in the next ten or fifteen minutes.
    We would plead with Hon Members not to apportion blame. We have a lot of businesses that are ready. We can carry on, so that we will not waste time. We assure them we will not have to suspend Sitting; we will carry on with the business without break. But they should allow us to manage what we have now, so that we will not have too many challenges.
    Dr A. A. Osei 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I sympathise with the Hon Majority Chief Whip. I can see he is under stress.
    Mr Speaker, one of the difficulties we are going to have or what is going to happen is that, they would rush the Papers in here and expect us to read them and contribute. That is what we are worried about. They pile them up, and then bring about ten Papers, and on the floor of the House, we are supposed to read them and contribute properly. This means, they do not expect us to contribute properly. So, I sympathise with them.
    Mr Speaker, I crave your indulgence that, whatever is ready -- let us go on. It is 11:30 a.m., the Hon Majority Leader said twenty minutes -- he is not here. Even the Business Statement, we cannot discuss. Why?
    We get up early to come here to do business; we do not have business. Then they propose that we meet on Saturday. Why? Please, they should do the right thing, so that we can assist them to do business.
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, as the Hon Majority Chief Whip has already informed us, we would like to proceed, with your permission, with the item contained on the Addendum Paper - Laying of Papers.
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    Is it in the programme for the business for this week, if so, who introduced it in the House?
    Mr Agbesi 11:30 a.m.
    Yes, Mr Speaker, it has been programmed to be presented.
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    Did you listen to the Hon Member for Sekondi say that the estimates for the Ministry of Education are not in the House?
    Mr Agbesi 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, it has become necessary for us to take this because the Hon Chairman of the Committee on Education has informed us of the necessity to take the item contained on the Addendum Order Paper.
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I cannot contradict what the Hon Deputy Majority Leader is saying. But I am amazed by the Statement of the Hon Chairman. I was with him yesterday and I asked about the estimates. The estimates are not ready; we have an Addendum Order Paper and he says we are ready to deal with them?
    Yes, after the First Reading, we would refer it to the Committee, and he is saying that the Committee is in a position to start considering the Bill, when we have not even seen the estimates? Please, sometimes, I do not know -- The Hon Chairman should say something.
    Mr Speaker, the Hon Chairman should really say something. Yesterday, I was with him, and I told him that we could not meet over the weekend if we even had the estimates here --
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    Is the Hon Chairman here?
    Yes, Hon Chairman of the Committee on Education?
    Mr Mathias A. Puozaa 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, as far as the Addendum is concerned, we
    have been compelled to really persuade Leadership to get it filed because we are time bound to get it done today, other than that we would not be able to lay it again.
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    So, for the estimates, you are not time bound?
    Mr Puozaa 11:30 a.m.
    As for the estimates, the Hon Papa Owusu-Ankomah is quite aware that the estimates are still not here from the Ministry of Finance; he is very much aware of that.
    Alhaji Muntaka 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, with the greatest respect, I can imagine the frustrations of most of our Hon Colleagues.
    Mr Speaker, the estimates are generated by the Ministry of Finance; it is the Ministry of Finance that generates all the estimates for all the sectors. As we speak now, Mr Speaker, they have even scheduled a meeting this weekend to deal with the estimates, because we have got assurances that they would arrive today.
    But our plea, Mr Speaker, is that, if we could proceed with the businesses that we have, that are ready now, we would make use of the time judiciously, assuring you that by the time we exhaust the businesses that are ready, other businesses would equally be ready for us to proceed. We just plead that Mr Speaker and Hon Members should indulge us to let us proceed with those that are ready.
    Thank you very much, Mr Speaker.
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    Hon Members, the Order Paper Addendum, by the Hon Minister for Education.
    rose
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Paper is supposed to be laid by the Hon Minister for Education. I saw the Hon Deputy Minister got up and bowed when he had not even been recognised by Mr Speaker.
    Mr Speaker, this is really serious. I do not know whether His Excellency the President has asked him to temporarily assume the responsibility of the Minister for Education. No! The President cannot even do that. He is not a substantive Minister.
    Mr Agbesi 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, we would like to seek your permission and the indulgence of the House for the Hon Deputy Minister to lay the Paper on behalf of the Hon Minister.
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    Hon Deputy Minority Leader?
    Mr Nitiwul 11:30 a.m.
    Well, he is a Member of Parliament, so -- but next time, I would ask where the Hon Minister herself is -- because he has to give a good excuse. But he is our Hon Colleague --
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    Hon Deputy Minister for Education?
    BILLS -- FIRST READING 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Agbesi 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, we would like to apply that the rest of the Papers to be laid, be stood down for now, and then go to item number7 -- Motions.
    Mr Speaker 11:30 a.m.
    Hon Members, item 7, Chairman of the Committee.

    Hon Members, please, that was why I thought the Business Statement would be presented while I am here. The Business Statement has captured it. The House would be Sitting tomorrow in order for the Constitutional Instrument from the Electoral Commission to pass. If we do not do that, we may have serious constitutional challenges.

    Hon Members, this is not the first time the House is being called upon to Sit on Saturdays. There are several examples where the House has been called upon to Sit on Saturdays, and I thought that I should make this information available to Hon Members before I leave the Chair.

    When the Business Statement is presented, you would be told when the House would Sit tomorrow. It would not be 10 o'clock, it would be later.

    Hon I. K. Asiamah, you are a young man but I did not see you the last time at the
    -- 11:30 a.m.
    Mr Speaker 11:40 a.m.
    Yes, item number 7.
    MOTIONS 11:40 a.m.
    Chairman of the Committee (Mr James K. Avedzi) 11:40 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that this Honourable House adopts
    the Report of the Finance Committee on the Financing Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the International Development Associa- tion for an amount equivalent to forty-four million Special Drawing Rights (SDR 44,000,000) [US$68.0 million equivalent] to finance the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project.
    Mr Speaker, in doing so, I present your Committee's Report.
    I would also want to add that the Agreement is together with a grant of US$5,000,000, which has also been captured as Motion, item number 9, but the Committee has only one Report to cover both.
    Introduction
    The requests for approval of the Financing Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the International Development Asso- ciation (IDA) for an amount equivalent to forty-four million Special Drawing Rights (SDR 44,000,000 [US$68.0 million equivalent]), to finance the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project and Grant Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the International Development Asso- ciation (IDA) (acting as an administrator of the Health Results Innovation Trust Fund) for an amount of US$5.0 million to finance the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project were presented to the House by the Hon Minister for Finance, Mr Seth Emmanuel Terkpeh, on Friday, 28th November, 2014, in accordance with article 181 of the 1992 Constitution.
    The First Deputy Speaker referred the request to the Finance Committee for consideration and report in accordance with Order 169 of the Standing Orders of the House.
    The Committee was assisted in its deliberations by the Hon Deputy Minister for Finance, Mr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Hon Deputy Minister for Health, Mr Victor Bampoe, officials from the Ministries of Finance and Health.
    The Committee is grateful to the Hon Deputy Ministers Finance and Health and officials from the Ministries of Finance and Health for attending upon it and assists in the deliberations.
    Reference
    The Committee referred to the following documents at its deliberations:
    The 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
    The Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana.
    The Loans Act, 1970 (ACT 335)
    Background
    The World Bank, in 2007, supported the Government of Ghana with a grant of US$25 million, to implement the Nutrition and Malaria Control for Child Survival Project (NMCCSP).
    The objective of the Project was to improve utilisation of select community- based health and nutrition services for children and pregnant women in selected districts. The project which completed in 2013 assisted the Government to strengthen and roll out the Community (Based) Health Planning and Services Programme (CHPS) in 77 districts across the country.
    The NMCCSP, together with other health interventions made significant progress in improving health outcomes over the past two decades, with maternal fertility declining from 6.4 children per
    Chairman of the Committee (Mr James K. Avedzi) 11:40 a.m.


    stakeholder's consultation to determine a standard design and equipment for all CHPS compound across the country. He informed the Committee that the unit cost of each Compound which will cover construction, fees and equipment is tentatively pegged at US$138,366.

    Impact on debt Stock

    On the likely impact of the facility on the country's debt stock and the debt sustainability, the Deputy Minister for Finance indicated that the impact of the US$68 million IDA facility on the country's debt sustainability is minimal. He explained that as part of Government's new debt management strategy as outlined in the 2015 Budget Statement, social projects will be financed with concessionary facilities with grant elements and Commercial loans channeled to Commercial projects.

    He explained that the current IDA facility is a concessionary credit with a grant element of 32.56 per cent which falls perfectly in line with Government's policy for financing social projects. The Depdebt sustainability analysis of the facility shows a minimal impact on the country's debt sustainability.

    Reallocation of 20 crisis response

    The Deputy Minister for Finance informed the Committee that an agreement has been reached with the World Bank to reallocate up to 20 per cent of the credit amount of US$68.0 million for the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project (MCHNIP) to support Ghana's Ebola crisis response. The Deputy Minister however, mentioned that the Bank will reimburse Ghana Government for the amount that will be

    spent to support that Ebola crisis response.

    Conclusions

    The Committee, having carefully examined the referrals, agree that the facility is a normal IDA concessionary facility with favourable terms.

    Further, the implementation of the Project will help improve utilisation of community-based health and nutrition service by women of reproductive age especially pregnant women and children under two (2) years of age.

    The Committee therefore, recommends to the House to adopt its Report and approve the request for approval of the Financing Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the International Development Associa- tion (IDA) for an amount equivalent to forty-four million Special Drawing Rights (SDR 44,000,000 [US$68.0 million equivalent]) to finance the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project and Grant Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the International Development Associa- tion (IDA) (acting as an administrator of the Health Results Innovation Trust Fund) for an amount of US$5.0 million to finance the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project in accordance with article 181 of the 1992 Constitution, section 7 of the Loans Act and Order 169 of the Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana.

    Respectfully submitted.
    Dr A. A. Osei (NPP-- Old Tafo) 11:40 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I rise to second the Motion.
    As a member of the Finance Committee, I shall not attempt to speak on the health aspect of the loan. We are asked to look at the terms and conditions of the loan. As the Hon Chairman has read out, the terms and conditions of the loan are quite concessionary.
    Mr Speaker, this time, what the Committee has decided to do, and the Hon Chairman just noted it, is that in the past, we used to simply not even recommend that we look at the Grant Agreement. But now, directly, we are saying that just to ensure that there is a complete package, the House should formerly adopt our conclusions of the Grant element, so that it becomes a complete package. It is not required anywhere but it is important that we do that formerly, so that the loop could be closed.
    Mr Speaker, as he said, one aspect of the loan is that it is structured in such a way that only a small part of the principal would be paid in the first ten years, which is about 36 per cent and so, the balance is loaded till the last ten years. So, it helps the Ministry in terms of the original monies that they would pay up.
    With these few words, I ask the House to adopt the Report of the Committee.
    Question proposed.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Mr Speaker 11:40 a.m.
    Consequential Resolution, Minister for Finance?
    Mr Agbesi 11:40 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, we would want to ask permission for the Hon Deputy Minister for Finance to take the Resolution on behalf of the Minister.
    Mr Speaker 11:40 a.m.
    Hon Deputy Minority Leader?
    RESOLUTIONS 11:40 a.m.
    Minister for Finance) 11:40 a.m.
    Speaker, I beg to move, that
    WHEREAS by the provisions of article 181 of the Constitution and Sections 3 and 7 of the Loans Act, 1970 (Act 335), the terms and conditions of any loan raised by the Government of the Republic of Ghana on behalf of itself or any public institution or authority shall not come into operation unless the said terms and conditions have been laid before Parliament and approved by a Resolution of Parliament;
    PURSUANT to the provisions of the said article 181 of the Constitution and sections 3 and 7 of the Loans Act, 1970 (Act 335) and at the request of the Government of the Republic Ghana acting through the Minister responsible for Finance, there has been laid before Parliament the terms and conditions of a Financing Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the International Development Association for an amount equivalent to forty-four million Special Drawing Rights (SDR 44,000,000) [US$68.0 million equivalent] to finance the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project.
    THIS HONOURABLE HOUSE 11:40 a.m.
    Mr Avedzi 11:40 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Resolved accordingly.
    Mr Speaker 11:40 a.m.
    Yes?
    Mr Agbesi 11:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, item number
    10.
    Mr Speaker 11:50 a.m.
    That is the Grant Agreement?
    Dr A. A. Osei 11:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, the first Report covered item number 9, that is why we do not have to move --
    Mr Speaker 11:50 a.m.
    Hon Members of the Finance Committee, this is a matter that we may have to discuss with the House. Jurisdiction is conferred by law and the duty is that under the Constitution, it is loans that we approve. Loans have been defined, in that it would impose an obligation on the country. So, why are we approving something that would not impose an obligation on the country? If the position of the Committee is that they must bring Grant Agreements for the information of the House, it is different
    from approving a Grant Agreement because the duty of this House is not to approve something that does not impose an obligation on the country.
    So, unless I am convinced that there is an obligation imposed on us under this Grant Agreement, we may be going outside our mandate. So, if you are introducing a new principle, it is important that the House discusses it.
    So, does it impose any obligation, Hon Member for Sekondi?
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 11:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, you know, we have article 181(5), which deals with -- the article with the necessary modifications by Parliament applying to an international business or economic transaction. So, the question may be whether that particular transaction is business or economic? What is business or economic? Does it always involve the payment of monies out of the Consolidated Fund or impose certain obligations which may not be financial? And a Grant, can it be considered to be in the form of a Treaty, Agreement or Convention as provided for in article 75?
    So, I believe that Mr Speaker, unless it is absolutely necessary, whenever a document is brought to us to examine, out of abundance of caution, we can treat it as article 181(5) or even article 75. But for us to say that it is not a power conferred on us under the Constitution, so, there is no need for us to do anything, then it may impute some problems to us. Then Mr Speaker, I do not know -- but it is something that as you said, we need to discuss --
    Mr Speaker 11:50 a.m.
    Hon Members, we need to be very careful when we are exercising our jurisdiction. The question is that if somebody decides not to bring it, do you have any cause of action against that person? If you look at article 181 (6), it clearly defines what a loan is. Even with
    the so-called necessary modifications under article 181 (5), it gives us the necessary modifications. That modifica- tion must be itself consistent with the obligations imposed under loans. And “loan” has been defined as --
    “ For the purposes of this article, “loan” includes any moneys lent or given to or by the Government on condition of return or repayment and any other form of borrowing or lending in respect of which
    (a) moneys from the Consolidated Fund or any other public fund may be used for payment or repayment, or
    (b) moneys from any fund by whatever name called, established for the purposes of payment or repayment whether directly or indirectly, may be used for payment or repayment”.
    And this is where the obligation is imposed.
    But then, I agree entirely that if the Committee says that the Grant Agreement element should be brought to the Committee to be informed and to know what the Grant would be used for, the Committee is entitled to get the document. But for us to go and be approving Grants, which does not impose any obligation and which does not lead to repayment, I have my challenge; I have my doubt. But --
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 11:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, in matters like this, the law resides in your bosom and I have no problem with that. As for that one, we can always discuss.
    Mr Speaker 11:50 a.m.
    I thought that since we were departing from the standard practice, this is a matter that ought to be discussed by the House. That it would be better for these issues to be discussed on the floor of the House. This is because if we are not very careful, people would start questioning the previous Grants that have been taken by previous Governments.
    Let me hear from the Hon Member for Wa West.
    Mr J. Y. Chireh 11:50 a.m.
    Thank you very much Mr Speaker.
    The suggestion that we are making here -- because this one came together with the loan and that is also the one that enables us to calculate the conb- cessionability of the loan. It is also the reason we should approve it because it is part of this Loan Agreement. So, I do not think it is a separate thing because Grants are not brought here -- they are not brought to Parliament. But if this Grant is part of a Loan Agreement and if today, we are saying that we do not need to approve of it -- and again, it is part of the loan. Once it is part of the loan itself and there are conditions for the repayment, if we remove the five million dollars, we cannot fulfill the payment.
    rose
    Mr Chireh 11:50 a.m.
    If it comes as a concessionary thing, I would say that we should not be hard on it. But once you have made a ruling, we can only talk about it.
    Mr Speaker 11:50 a.m.
    It is not a ruling I have made. I will not have --
    Yes, Hon Second Deputy Speaker --
    Mr Ghartey 11:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, in my view, it is a question of how we want to interpret the Constitution -- whether we would want to give it a narrow interpretation or broaden it a bit. I am being urged to use the term purposeful, but I can adopt it for my purpose.
    Mr Ghartey 11:50 a.m.


    Mr Speaker, as was said by my good Friend, Hon Yieleh Chireh, when the Grant is part of the loan, that is when it falls part of the conditions of the loan. It is difficult for us in passing or approving the loan and separate it from the Grants. When there is a Grant, simpliciter -- then I would agree completely that when it comes to the Grant, simpliciter, for you to bring it here for approval, would be flying it in the face of the clear and unambiguous provisions of the Constitution. But sometimes, in the nature of these loans, we look at the concession and everything. In fact, we approve of the loan because of the Grant element, sometimes.

    It is the Grant element that forms the basis for which the Committee is recommending the approval of the loan. If that is the case, then perhaps, we must take it together, if it comes together. But if it comes separately, then Mr Speaker, there is absolutely no basis for us to bring a Grant here for approval; it would be unconstitutional. But as I said, when it comes together with the loan, then we must perhaps, look at it together. This is because the main reason we are looking at it, Mr Speaker, as you said correctly, is the fact that it is a charge on the public purse. That is the main reason we have the authority -- the fact that it is a charge on the public purse.

    Now, the charge on the public purse is reduced because there is a Grant. So, the Hon Chairman of the Committee and the Hon Ranking Member moving their Motion and in supporting, would state that, yes, there is a loan but there is also a Grant element and indeed, that influences all of us in support. After they have said that, we would approve it as a package --
    Mr Speaker noon
    Hon Members, what is the total amount that we are taking with the Grant inclusive?
    Yes, Hon Member for Old Tafo?
    Dr A. A. Osei noon
    We are taking US$ 68 million as a loan and US$ 5 million as Grant, so that the entire package is US$73 million. And the programme would not be full if we do not have the US$ 5 million. It is not a small amount.
    Mr Speaker noon
    So, what are the terms of the Grant? This is because under the terms here, we must read this with the Loans Act.
    Dr A. A. Osei noon
    It is zero interest rate.
    Mr Speaker noon
    What are the terms? This is because they have not reported on that. [Interruption] -- The Committee has not reported on the Grant.
    Dr A. A. Osei noon
    We did, Mr Speaker.
    Mr Speaker noon
    The Committee's Report is here, they have not reported on the Grant. They only ended at the conclusion, that we should approve the loan, and Grant Agreement.
    Mr Ghartey noon
    Mr Speaker, they seem to suggest from the Report that there is a separate Grant Agreement. If there is a separate Grant Agreement, then I completely agree with you, that we cannot approve that.
    Mr Speaker noon
    Yes, Hon Second Deputy Speaker, what they have here is that we should approve the SDR 44,000.000, which is equivalent to US$ 68 million and a Grant Agreement. That is why they are taking two consequential Resolutions.
    Mr Ghartey noon
    We cannot approve that.
    Mr Speaker noon
    If they have made the Grant element as part of the first Resolution, I would not have raised the issue that I am raising.
    Yes, Hon Prof. Gyan-Baffour?
    Prof. George Y. Gyan-Baffour noon
    Mr Speaker, the issue is a misinterpretation of these concepts. If you have a loan, there would be Grant elements.
    Mr Speaker noon
    This is Grant Agreement.
    Prof. Gyan-Baffour noon
    Mr Speaker, when he said Grant element, he was actually referring to the loan itself, -- [Interruption] -- but the Grant is separate. So, I agree with you that apart from the loan, the Grant itself, and not the Grant element should not have come before us. That is what he is saying, and I agree with that.
    Mr Speaker noon
    Let me hear from the Deputy Minister before I call the Chairman of the Committee.
    Deputy Minister for Finance?
    Mr Forson noon
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    Mr Speaker, for your information, the Grant element is separate from the Loan Agreement. There is some linkage to the loan, in the sense that one would have to take the loan before he benefits from the Grant, but the two are not together. They are separate Agreements.
    Mr Ghartey noon
    Mr Speaker, upon this information, there is no problem at all with revising your position. And upon this information, I would revise my position.
    There are two separate documents and we cannot approve the Grant. But I guess that perhaps, we must take the Committee that you set up serious -- the article181 (5) Committee. This is because if we take it serious, all these issues would be
    taken on board, whether a Grant can come together with a loan or the Grant should be separated.
    Mr Speaker, that would resolve the problem. But from what he said, I totally agree with you, that we cannot approve the Grant. We do not have the power to do that.
    Mr Speaker noon
    Yes, Dr Appiah-Kubi?
    Dr Kojo Appiah-Kubi noon
    Mr Speaker, I would want us also to look at the whole issue from economics point of view, that a grant is also a loan with just an interest rate of zero. This is because every Grant --
    Mr Speaker noon
    You do not pay it back.
    Dr Appiah-Kubi noon
    Excuse me; let me land.
    Mr Speaker noon
    Hon Dr Appiah-Kubi, the problem is that if you look at our law, in terms of the Grant, we do not pay it back. That zero per cent interest that the Hon Member for Old Tafo is raising is neither here nor there. This is because one does not pay it back. So, there are actually no terms. If you look at the loan item, it must come with terms.
    Dr Appiah-Kubi noon
    Mr Speaker, definitely, if it is a separate Agreement, it has conditions. This Grant has conditions, that Ghana would be bound to fulfil. These conditions impose obligations on the country and these obligations involve cost.
    Mr Speaker noon
    Hon Members, whatever we say on the floor and whatever we do, for all we may know, people who are advising people dealing with the GoG, would want to find out whether the proper things have been done to allow for disbursement, especially in the face of the
    Mr Speaker noon
    Hon Minister, I entirely agree with you, that the Committee should ask them to bring it. But whether we have to approve it, and if we do not approve it, whether there are legal and constitutional implications, is another matter. And this is the point that I am raising.
    Yes, Hon Ranking Member, then the Chairman of the Committee?
    Dr A. A. Osei noon
    Mr Speaker, having heard from you and a former Attorney- General and Minister for Justice, you are right. We were doing it out of the abundance of caution. But they are two separate Agreements.
    The point is that without the Grant, we will not fully be able to complete the obligation. But that is a separate matter. I agree with you. We should step down those two items. But we should say that we are bringing it to the information of the House.
    Mr Speaker noon
    Absolutely.
    Mr Avedzi noon
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    I agree with the Ranking Member because there are two separate docu- ments. The first one, which is the Financing Agreement for the loan is between GoG and IDA. Then the second one is the Health Resolve Trust Fund Grant Agreement, also between the GoG and IDA.
    Now, these two Agreements were laid separately and referred to the Finance Committee. But the Committee, in considering them, thought that we could not have a separate Report for the Grant Agreement but make it one report. That is why we looked at it that way.
    Also, the project which is the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project, the cost involved is made up of the US$ 68 million, which is the loan, and US$5 million, which is the Grant, making US$73 million. This also means that if we approve the US$68 million without taking the Grant, we cannot achieve the full outcome of the project. But the issue we are discussing, whether
    the Grant component is something that we should approve, is something that we should --
    Mr Speaker 12:10 p.m.
    So, if you want the US$ 5 million, then it must come with its own report on the Agreement. They are two separate Agreements, now that you are telling us. But I would want to defer this matter for further consultation, then we can agree. We are masters of our own procedures when it comes to this particular issue. So, I would want to defer it for now.
    What item are we taking, Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 12:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, we would move to item number 52, page 21.
    Mr Speaker 12:10 p.m.
    Yes Hon Ranking Member?
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, before the Chairman goes on, I would want to crave your indulgence to look at this matter. This is because it relates to the ealier issue we had with the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). And that is why I need your attention.
    Our approval of the Consent Agreement has implications for the PPA. They are related. So, if they are saying that they do not have to pay in here, then in doing the GSCA, we are almost agreeing. So, I do not think we should consider the consent Agreement without solving that matter -- [Interruption] -- but there are conditions there.
    Mr Speaker 12:10 p.m.
    Hon Members, we can take one without the other.
    MR FIRST DEPUTY SPEAKER
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:11 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Member for Sekondi?
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 12:11 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, we are taking an item in respect of which we have reported; the other item has not yet been reported on. When it is reported on, arguments would be advanced. As far as I am concerned, if we approve this, it reinforces our position that the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) too must be approved.
    The item you are referring to --
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:11 p.m.
    So, we are bringing it to your attention.
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 12:11 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the point being raised by the Hon Member for Old Tafo is valid but I also believe it is premature. That is the point I am making.
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:11 p.m.
    I am bringing it to your attention.
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 12:11 p.m.
    The House is not apprised of the various documents the Report -- [Interruption.]
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:11 p.m.
    We are, Mr Speaker.
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 12:11 p.m.
    Please, as of now -- because no report has been laid before us.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:11 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader, if we have a problem with that one, can we not deal with another with other matters which are available?
    Mr Agbesi 12:11 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, we are ready. The Chairman of the Committee informed me that item number 52 is ready to be taken and I have mentioned it because we have already finished with the other one.
    So, we are on item 52, on page 21.
    MOTIONS 12:11 p.m.
    Chairman of the Committee (Mr James K. Avedzi) 12:11 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that notwithstanding the provisions of Standing Order 80(1) which require that no Motion shall be debated until at least forty-eight hours have elapsed between the date on which notice of the Motion is given and the date on which the Motion is moved, the Motion for the adoption of the Report of the Finance Committee on the Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited relating to a 360MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant Facility at Aboadze may be moved today.
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:11 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Resolved accordingly.
    Mr Ahmed Ibrahim 12:11 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, let us go to item number 53.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:11 p.m.
    Hon Members, item 53 by the Chairman of the Committee.
    Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the
    Government of the Republic of Ghana and Amandi Energy Limited
    Chairman of the Committee (Mr James K. Avedzi) 12:11 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that this Honourable House adopts the Report of the Finance Committee on the Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Amandi Energy Limited relating to a 190- 240MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant Facility at Aboadze.
    Mr Speaker, in doing so, I present your Committee's Report.
    Introduction
    The Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Amandi Energy Limited relating to a 190 - 240 MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant at Aboadze and GCSA Deed of Acknow- ledgement and Consent Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana, Amandi Energy Limited and Ecobank relating to a 190 - 240 MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant at Aboadze were presented to Parliament on behalf of the Minister for Energy and Petroluem by the Hon. Deputy Minister for Energy and Petroleum, Mr John Abdulai Jinapor on Thursday, 27 th November, 2014 and referred to the Finance Committee for consideration and report in accordance with article 181(1), (2) and (5) of the 1992 Constitution and Order 169 of the Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana.
    Pursuant to the referral, the Committee met with the Hon Minister for Energy and Petroleum, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Deputy Ministers for Finance Mr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson and Ms Mona K. Quartey, and officials of the Ministries of Energy and Petroleum and Finance and the Electricity Company of Ghana and considered the referral.
    The Committee is grateful to the Hon Ministers and officials of the two Ministries and the Electricity Company of Ghana for attending upon it.
    Reference
    The Committee referred to the following additional documents during the deliberations:
    The 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
    The Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana.
    Background
    To address the generation problem in the country, Government has as a major
    policy thrust to increase the installed capacity of the country's electricity generation from the current 2,000 MW to about 5,000 MW by 2016. According to the Generation Master Plan, peak demand for 2015 is projected at 2,200 MW which implies that during 2015, electricity demand will outstrip the current power generation capacity by about 200 MW.
    Government has therefore, set a target generation of about 5,000 MW in order to meet the projected demand and maintain surplus for export and achieve national energy security with a reserve margin of about 20 per cent to address system emergencies and unforeseen challenges. This additional generation capacity is expected to be addressed by private participation through IPPs.
    It is therefore, in response to this that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Amandi on 31st July, 2013 executed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) under which Amandi agrees to supply to ECG a power plant capacity of between 190- 240MW over a 25-year period. Amandi as part of the PPA arrangement, requested
    for government support in a form of guarantee to back-up ECG payments since one of the key challenges facing the development of private power plants in Ghana is bankability. The GCSA and GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement and Power Purchase Agreements are therefore needed to give comfort to financial institutions to support IPPs to develop power projects in Ghana.
    The Project
    The project involves the development, ownership, operation and management of a 190-240 MW combined cycle dual power plant to be located near Aboadze in the Western Region of Ghana. The project will be financed on a limited recourse project finance basis with debt to equity ratio of 75:25 to be revised to 70:30 in 3 to 4 years after the commercial operation date.
    Project Financing
    The total cost for the 190-240 MW CCGT plant is estimated at US$ 409.12 million - US$ 528.82 million depending on the MW of power produce.
    The breakdown is as follows:
    SPACE FOR DESCRIPTION - PAGE 6 - 12.10P.M.
    Dr Anthony Akoto Osei (NPP-- Old Tafo) 12:20 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion on page 21 of the Order Paper, item number 52.
    Mr Speaker, in seconding the Motion, I would want to bring to the attention of Hon Members, that we keep in mind the issue that arose earlier.
    In particular, I would want to take our attention to page 2 of the Committee's Report. With your permission Mr Speaker, I would want to read:
    “Amandi as part of the PPA arrangement, requested for government support in a form of guarantee to back-up ECG payments since one of the key challenges facing the development of private power plants in Ghana is bankability.”
    Mr Speaker, I stated that because the approval of the GCSA is contingent on an Agreement of the PPA, which we are being told they are deciding that it ought not to come here. So, we should be very careful.
    We need to understand that there is a precondition. This GCSA could only take place because there is the assumption that we are approving the PPA. ECG is not a private entity; it is wholly owned by Government. That is why they are asking for this GCSA which we are told they were able to negotiate in the PPA.
    The amount should have been US$30 million but it has been brought down to US$10 million. So, if we approve this and we conclude that we do not have to look at the PPA, it may affect this approval. So, we have to keep that in mind.
    The documentation came to all of us but it was for obvious reasons it referred to the Energy and Mines Committee, and this part was referred to us because of the fiscal implications. So, the House ought to take note and make sure that the PPA comes to Parliament. We were doing it without understanding, and we should be careful.
    Mr Speaker, on page 6 of the Committee's Report, we notice that the Chairman offered an amendment. Mr Speaker, the reason we are proposing this amendment is that, in the language that was given us, it referred to in case of a VRA default.
    So, we asked that since the Volta River Authority (VRA) is not part of this Agreement, where is the potential default? And we were told that in the PPA again, there are some shared services between VRA and Amandi Energy Limited. So, we said they should make reference to those specific shared services and not the generality. That is the reason we are proposing that amendment.
    In fact somebody later on said that it should even be removed. But we think it is not wise to say in general -- “VRA default” -- But make reference to, as the
    Chairman read 12:20 p.m.
    “…limited to the joint Services Agreement under the PPA…”
    Mr Speaker, that is another reason the PPA must be brought here. We cannot remove it.
    Mr Speaker, I would want to remind the Chairman, that they should be bringing the PPA here and they should not be concluding that it should not be coming here. This is because the Cenpower Generation Limited PPA was brought here. But when the Chairman said that they were thinking that we had not done so, I was very surprised. [Interruptions.] That is what your Chairman said. So, I am reminding him that we are expecting that they would bring a report on the PPA --
    Mr Speaker, with those few words, I ask Hon Members to adopt the Report, cognisance to the fact that a PPA would be brought to the House.
    Thank you.
    Question proposed.
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah (NPP-- Sekondi) 12:20 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the PPA is not before the House because the Report has not been laid. Mr Speaker, but it is obvious that under the circumstances, you could only appreciate the full import of the Agreement in respect of which the Report is being made, if the House is also apprised of the PPA. This is because copious references in this Report have been made to the PPA, and they are in agreement to the PPA.
    It is just a matter of form, that separates committees of the House, have been
    tasked with these two Agreements. Other than that, it could have been referred to a joint committee. But because of the nature of our workings, I believe we are now developing the practice of referring sector specific Agreements to sector com- mittees, and Financial Agreements relating to those sectors to the Finance Committee.
    Mr Speaker, this is only an aside, so as not to open up debate on a matter that is not really before plenary.
    But having said that, I would wish to make the point that in all these Agreements, a lot of work is done by the Executive before the Agreements are concluded and laid before the House. It is also important that we, as a House, endeavour to understand these Agreements, even if it means delaying it for some time or even getting experts to come and brief committees. It is only after this that we may then come to full grasp with these matters.
    Mr Speaker, sometimes, even the Ministers who lay these documents before the House, fall on their technical people for explanation. So, we should not attempt to think that we could understand all these things, particularly when we do not have that technical expertise available to us.
    I therefore, urge the House to approve this Report.
    I thank you very much.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:20 p.m.
    Thank you very much.
    Could we hear from the Ranking Member of the Mines and Energy Committee? After that, we will come to the -- [Interruption] -- Why-- Would not take the last bite? Let us listen to all of them. Or do you think there is something that has been raised that you need to react to immediately?
    Very well. So, Hon K. T. Hammond.
    Mr Kobina Tahir Hammond (NPP -- Adansi Asokwa) 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I am clear in my mind that if the Hon Minister for Energy and Petroleum would want to deal with the issue, I would let him -- suspects he knows what I am going to talk about. So, if the Minister wants to deal with it
    -- 12:30 p.m.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Hon K.T. Hammond, I hope you are not saying he is a clairvoyant?
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, no. Because he and I have had a talk about --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    You go ahead.
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, my Hon Colleague, the Ranking Member for the Finance Committee alluded to those matters and mentioned me in respect of one aspect of that.
    Mr Speaker, it is not that the Committee on Mines and Energy would not responsibly deal with their part of it. But we have come to some difficult decisions whether as the Hon Members, Papa Owusu-Ankomah was talking about, that this matter should not have been a strict reference to maybe, the Committee on Finance or a joint one.
    Mr Speaker, we are thinking that we may have to come back to this House because the issue with respect to ours, the PPA does not appear to be so straight- forward.
    I, for my part, do not recall after 12 years in this House, that there has once been a PPA sent to this House for approval.
    I, am getting a bit anxious Mr Speaker. Let us approve this; we would come back and if it is the case that we should present our report, no doubt, we would. But I am beginning to get anxious whether
    we are doing something right. That was why I thought the Hon Minister was going to clarify it. I would invite the House to for now, approve this. We are going to have an emergency meeting now. [Interruption.] Well, a meeting to discuss this matter.
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Hon Member, is it a point of order?
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 12:30 p.m.
    Yes, Mr Speaker. Whether we are doing something right, I do not see how the Hon Member can say that he is not sure whether the House is doing something right.
    The Paper has been laid before the House. It has been referred to a Committee. How can the House be right or wrong in dealing with it? You just have to submit your report. When the Report comes, the House may agree with the Report or the House may not agree with it.
    It is not a matter of whether the House is doing something right or wrong. That is the point. So, I am imploring Mr Speaker to ask him to withdraw that statement. Whether what is right or wrong, it can never be either -- We are just undertaking our duty; that is all.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Yes, Hon K. T. Hammond, can you defend yourself?
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I fundamentally disagree with my Hon Colleague on that point. For example, if a reference was made to us by the Hon Speaker on a matter which the Consti-
    Constitution does not mandate us to undertake -- [Interruption.] Wait a minute -- we do not do the report. We go to Committee and if there is an issue, we come back to the Hon Speaker and ask for clarification because the Constitution obviously debar us from the tangent that the Speaker is setting us on --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    That would come in the form of a report. The content of the report would indicate --
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, my Hon Colleague, maybe, was not listening to all that I was saying. I said that we were deciding on what to do and in the fullness of time, we would come back to this House with the report in whatever shape it is to ask -- [Interruption] -- Which Chairman said “no”?
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Member for Sekondi?
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I clearly understood what the Hon Member for Adansi Asokwa said. What he said was clear; he said he was not sure whether what the House was doing was right or wrong and I said it was never his business to say that.
    You submit a report and the House takes a decision. The decision is constitutionally mandated. If something is unconstitutional, the House would decide based upon your recommendation. That is your business.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Very well.
    Hon Members, let us not belabour the point. As the Hon Member for Sekondi said, we are following procedure. So, when
    it is referred to the Committee, if the Committee has any reservations, it can in its report would indicate and then it would be up to plenary to decide whether to accept the reservations of the Committee.
    So Hon Member, if you could just withdraw that portion of your submission and then we can make some progress.
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, which aspect of it am I supposed to withdraw?
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Well, we do not know whether what we are doing is right or wrong.
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, no! We should put it in context. If I am wrong, I would be happy to withdraw it but I have got to be understood. This is because if I am not and I am asked to withdraw it, it might leave my argument in a certain balance I would not like.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Hon Member, let me explain.
    What he is saying is this. We have gone through a certain process. The matter has been referred to a committee. The committee submits its report. If in the deliberations of the committee, it was felt that something was wrongly done, it would appear in the report. [Interruption.] But so far, nothing like that has appeared.
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Well, Mr Speaker, that is exactly the point that I am making. We, at the Committee level are wondering if we are doing something wrong. So, that is what we are working on and in the fullness of time, this House would be informed about that. That is the point I am making.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    But that has nothing to do with the procedure that has been adopted --
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Absolutely not, Mr Speaker.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Yes, so that is the reason I am asking you to withdraw that portion. It gives the impression that the Speaker or the person in the Chair at the time made a mistake.
    Mr Hammond 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, my Leader just had a scurry and he has indicated -- I am not so sure which part of it; so what I would do is that I would withdraw the entire gamut of what -- [Laughter.]
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Very well.
    Yes, Hon Prof. Gyan-Baffour?
    Prof. Gyan-Baffour 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, underlying all this confusion here is the fact that we have always said that when issues relating to certain sectors of the economy mix with the finances, it should be jointly referred. If they had referred it jointly, all these conflicts would not have arisen. Each time this issue comes up, it is repelled -- and we always come back to it with some problems like this.
    So Mr Speaker, I believe most of these things, even though they are under Finance, because they are related to certain sectors, they must be jointly referred, so that they can resolve them in that referred joint group before they come to the House. He is talking about something different and the Committee on Finance is also talking something different.
    Mr Speaker, we have to go back. It is our own rules and we can always change them to ensure that these issues are referred to joint committees to avoid any of these conflicts that come on the floor.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Very well.
    Thank you very much.
    Yes, Hon Minister?
    Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, let me thank the Finance Committee for -- [Interruption] -- Let me thank the Finance Committee for the work done.
    I believe the Finance Committee, during their work, raised very important issues, especially the issue of whether the liability of VRA extends to Government. Those are all flagged and are issues that we would be dealing with, with the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.
    Mr Afenyo-Markin 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, we cannot hear the Minister.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    I believe you can now hear him; can you not?
    Mr Afenyo-Markin 12:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the slangs -- [Interruption]--This is Ghana
    -- 12:30 p.m.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Hon Member, Hon Member --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:30 p.m.
    Hon Member, you have made your point. But you probably would need to go and do some slang language training in the United States of America.
    Hon Minister, please, go ahead --
    Mr Buah 12:30 p.m.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker -- [Laughter.] Is that good enough?
    Mr Speaker, I would also want to point out that the reason we are here today is on the issue that has been discussed, which is very important.
    The reason we are here is the concern of the lenders. Looking at ECG's financial situation, we are very concerned and they wanted Government to backstop ECG's payments and that is why we are here and I believe that was the point that the Hon Member for Adansi Asokwa was making.
    Mr Speaker, I believe it is important to also stress that yesterday, we approved an ENI Agreement, hopefully, to bring us gas -- 180 million a day.
    The question was asked whether we had enough thermal plant. I believe the importance of this project can be on the score, that this is the project that would take the gas that we foresee.
    Mr Speaker, I believe if you look at the growth in demand as have been emphasised repeatedly from 2010 up to now from 1,300 megawatts in 2010 and now, almost 2,200, the need to urgently increase generation cannot be over- emphasised.
    But Mr Speaker, as we stress this, we need to continue to strengthen the transmission and distribution sectors and make sure that we can get to a point where we do not even come back to Parliament for Government's consent and support.
    Our institution, especially in the power sector must have the capacity to sign this Agreement without Government back- stopping these payments and that requires the complete reform in the distribution subsector.
    I am happy that this House is supporting us in that effort to basically transform the distribution sector and make sure that ECG is strong enough going forward, and that we can see a future where we do not need Government's support and that ECG can approve more power purchase Agreement. This project has taken more than three or four years. We need quicker approvals of these power purchase Agreements.
    Mr Speaker, having said that, I would urge all Hon Members to support the approval of this very important concern. so that we can move on and bring more power generation.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, we go to the Resolution contained in item 54.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Very well.
    Consequential Resolution, item number 54, Minister for Finance?
    RESOLUTIONS 12:40 p.m.
    THIS HONOURABLE HOUSE 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Avedzi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Resolved accordingly.
    Mr Second Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, if we can go to item 63 at page 26.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    That is the Resolution?
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    That is so, Mr Speaker.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Item numbered 63?
    Mr Avedzi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Resolution numbered 63 on the Order Paper should be preceded with items 61 and 62 but it is one Report that covers the two -- what we did before this one. So, moving items 61 and 62, is redundant because we have already presented the Report. And when I was moving the conclusion, I moved the two. So, it is for us to take the Resolution 63 to complete the Agreement on the Amandi Energy Limited.
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:40 p.m.
    Yes, I think we should formally go through Motions 61 and 62 to do the proper thing because they are supposed to be separate Reports.
    MOTIONS 12:40 p.m.
    Chairman of the Committee (Mr James Avedzi) 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that notwithstanding the provisions of Standing Order 80 (1) which require that no Motion shall be debated until at least, forty-eight hours have elapsed between the date on which notice of the Motion is
    given and the date on which the Motion is moved, the Motion for the adoption of the Report of the Finance Committee on the GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana, Amandi Energy Limited and ECOBANK Ghana Limited relating to a 190-240MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant Facility at Aboadze may be moved today.
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:40 p.m.
    I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement among
    Government of Ghana, Amandi Energy Limited and ECOBANK
    Chairman of the Committee (Mr James K. Avedzi) 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that this Honourable House adopts the Report of the Finance Committee on the GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement among the Govern- ment of the Republic of Ghana, Amandi Energy Limited and ECOBANK Ghana Limited relating to a 190-240 MW Com- bined Cycle Gas Power Plant Facility at Aboadze.
    In doing so, I present the Committee's Report and I would want to say that it is the same Report that I presented under the Motion captured as item 53.
    Introduction
    The Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) among the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Amandi Energy Limited and Ecobank relating to a 190 - 240 MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant at Aboadze and GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement between the
    Government of the Republic of Ghana, Amandi Energy Limited and Ecobank relating to a 190 - 240 MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant at Aboadze were presented to Parliament on behalf of the Minister for Energy and Petroluem by the Hon Deputy Minister for Energy and Petroleum, Mr John Abdulai Jinapor on Thursday, 27 th November, 2014 and referred to the Finance Committee for consideration and report in accordance with article 181(1), (2) and (5) of the 1992 Constitution and Order 169 of the Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana.
    Pursuant to the referral, the Committee met with the Hon Minister for Energy and Petroleum, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Deputy Ministers for Finance Mr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson and Mr Mona K. Quartey, and Officials of the Ministries of Energy and Petroleum and Finance and the Electricity Company of Ghana and considered the referral.
    The Committee is grateful to the Hon Ministers and officials of the two Ministries and the Electricity Company of Ghana for attending upon it.
    Reference
    The Committee referred to the following additional documents during the deliberations:
    The 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
    The Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana.
    Background
    To address the generation problem in the country, Government has as a major policy thrust to increase the installed capacity of the country's electricity generation from the current 2,000 MW to
    Chairman of the Committee (Mr James K. Avedzi) 12:40 p.m.


    US$10 million equivalent to three months of Amandi's operation income as guarantee. The guarantee account will serve as collateral to indemnify ECG's indebtedness to Amandi in case of default. Government will assume the payment obligations of ECG only if it defaults in making funds available in the security account. Again, the Agreement makes provision for government to pay for the cost of the project in case there is the need to terminate the implementation of the project at any time through no fault of the developer.

    Tariffs

    The Deputy Minister of Finance informed the Committee that the Public Utilities and Regulatory Commission upon a thorough assessment of the financing structure of the company granted Amandi two tariff regimes based on the type of fuel they will be using at a given time. The two regimes are as follows:

    Type of fuel used Approved Tariff

    1. Natural Gas -- 13.5 cents/kwh

    2. Liquefied Crude Oil (LCO) -- 18 cents/kwh

    He explained to the Committee that these figures were arrived at using a reference price of US$100.00 / per barrel for LCO and US$10.50 for natural gas. The tariffs are likely to fall with a continuous reduction in the international price of crude and natural gas.

    GoG undertakings in respect of VRA default

    The Committee noted that though VRA is not a direct party to the Agreement, the caption as indicated in clause 4.1.2 seems

    to place a direct liability on the part of VRA. The Committee is of the view that since VRA's obligations are only limited to the joint Services Agreement under the PPA, Clause 4.1.2 should be amended to limit VRA's liabilities to its responsibilities under the joint Services Agreement between Amandi Energy Ltd. and VRA.

    Deed of Acknowledgement

    The Minister explained to the Committee that the Deed of Acknowledgement allows the lenders the first right to take over and execute the project when the project company fails to execute the project. It is necessary to give lenders the comfort and assurance that the project will be completed and when the implementing company fails they have some level of authority to appoint a new company to complete the project. This is important because the lenders can only recoup their investment when the project is completed and is operational.

    Conclusion

    The Committee upon a thorough examination of the Agreements is of the view that, the projects when completed has the capacity to increase the country's installed capacity by 7-9 per cent. Again, the project when completed will make it possible to supply electric power to Ghanaians and help address the perennial power shortages in the country.

    The Committee therefore, recommends to the House to adopt its Report subject to the proposed amendment and approve in accordance with article 174(2) of the 1992 Constitution the following:

    1. The Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Amandi Energy Limited relating to a 190

    - 240 MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant at Aboadze; and

    2. GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana, Amandi Energy Limited and Ecobank relating to a 190 - 240 MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant at Aboadze.

    Respectfully submitted.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Yes?
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Very well.

    I cannot change it.
    [Inaudible]
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Can you use the microphone?
    Dr Prempeh 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I was wondering if I could raise my concerns now since this is a different Motion.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    No! I thought we had already dealt with that matter.
    Dr Prempeh 12:40 p.m.
    I was up, and this is listed as a Motion. To the service of mother Ghana!
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Yes, I can understand you. To the service of “mother” Ghana --
    Dr Prempeh 12:40 p.m.
    But it is a Motion and that is why I was up, and when you told me you will get to me --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    It just escaped me.
    Dr Prempeh 12:40 p.m.
    So, I was just bringing it up.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    It will mean that you are taking us back. That is the effect of it. So, let us move on.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Minister will now take item 63, the Resolution --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Member for Sekondi?
    Papa Owusu-Ankomah 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I would want to draw the attention of the House to the fact that we have still not taken the business of the House. It is getting to 1.00 o'clock. The Hon Deputy Majority Leader said the Leader will be there just in about 20 minutes. We have been Sitting for almost two hours and I do not know whether the Leader is lost.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    We are still waiting for him [Laughter] -- But Mr Speaker--
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    So, you are confirming that he is lost?
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    Sorry?
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    If you are looking for him, then you are confirming he is lost. [Laughter.]
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    The Leader is not lost, he is on the premises but he is engaged outside the floor and very soon, he will come and present the Business Statement.
    But Mr Speaker, within the time allotted, if he is not here, I will get your permission to present the Business Statement.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    So, which item are we taking now?
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Minister will take the Resolution contained in item number 63.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Minister for Finance?
    RESOLUTIONS 12:40 p.m.
    Minister for Finance) 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that
    WHEREAS by the provisions of Article 181 of the Constitution and Section 10 of the Loans Act, 1970 (Act 335), the terms and conditions of any guarantee by the Govern- ment of Ghana on behalf of any public institution or authority shall not come into operation, unless the said terms and conditions have been laid before Parliament and approved by Parliament by a Resolution supported by the votes of a majority of all Members of Parliament;
    PURSUANT to the provisions of the said article 181 of the Constitution and Section 10 of the Loans Act, (Act 335) at the request
    of the Government of Ghana acting through the Minister responsible for Finance, there has been laid before Parliament the terms and conditions of a GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement between the Govern- ment of the Republic of Ghana, Amandi Energy Limited and ECOBANK Ghana Limited relating to a 190-240MW Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant Facility at Aboadze.
    THIS HONOURABLE HOUSE 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Avedzi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Resolved accordingly.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, if we can go back to item number 14?
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Item number 14, do we have the Minister in the Chamber?
    Mr Agbesi 12:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Minister is not here, but the Deputy Minister is here to take the Motion on his behalf. We will ask for your permission to do so.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Very well.
    Dr A. A. Osei — rose --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Hon Member for Old Tafo? There is a request that the Deputy Minister stands in for the Minister.
    Dr A. A. Osei 12:40 p.m.
    I cannot see the Deputy Minister.

    No problem at all.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:40 p.m.
    Very well.
    Item numbered 14; Deputy Minister for Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs?
    ANNUAL ESTIMATES 12:40 p.m.
    Chairman of Committee (Mr K. M. Woyome) 12:50 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to support the Motion, that this Hon House approves the sum of GH¢19,546,785 for the services of the Ministry of Chieftaincy
    Chairman of Committee (Mr K. M. Woyome) 12:50 p.m.


    For year 2015, the Ministry plans to apply its resources to implement a number of programmes including the following:

    i. Collate and enter 950 chiefs into the National Register of Chiefs, in a bid to maintain a database of traditional rulers and as part of measures to strengthen the management of traditional authorities.

    ii. Process 15 Legislative Instruments on the codification of lines of succession applicable to 15 stools/skins for passage into law.

    iii. Facilitate the resolution of 60 chieftaincy cases by Judicial Committees of the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs ^through the judicial process and amicably settle 80 disputes through the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process.

    iv. Organise ten (10) advocacy Programmes on social issues.

    v. Promote the modernisation of outmoded traditions and customs through the organisation of programmes to eliminate harmful traditional practices.

    Observations and recommendations

    The Committee observed that there has been a reduction in the budgetary allocation to the Ministry from GH¢20,227,991.00 in year 2014 to GH¢19,546,785.00 in year 2015.

    In the year 2014, the Ministry was allocated an amount of GH¢1,340,849.00 for Goods and Services. However, it has been allocated a sum of GH¢670,425.00 for the same expenditure item for the

    year 2015.Again, whereas the Ministry, in the year 2014 was allotted an amount of GH¢1,362,274.00 for Assets, it has been allocated an amount of GH¢75 0,000.00 for year the 2015.

    The Committee was informed that the Ministry, in the ensuing year, intends to apply its allocation for Assets to the following:

    a. Renovate its office building.

    b. Purchase computers and accesso- sories.

    c. Complete the construction of a two-storeyed office complex for the National House of Chiefs.

    d. Continue the construction of a conference hall and office for the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs.

    e.Complete the construction of offices for the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs.

    The Commit tee noted that the reduction in the year 2015 Assets allocation by 45 per cent of the total requirement of GH¢1,363,137.00 may affect the execution of key projects of the Ministry. While the Committee urges the Ministry of Finance to ensure that releases are made and on time, it also recommends that the Ministry of Finance should consider making up for the shortfall in allocation to enable the Ministry execute its projects.

    The unique role of chiefs and queen mothers in the socio-economic deve- lopment of the country cannot be underestimated. Chiefs among others play advocacy roles and help in the resolution and settlement of disputes.

    However, the Committee noted that the various Houses of Ch iefs and Traditional Councils do not have the full complement of staff. They are therefore, confronted with challenges in the performance of their duties. Each Tradit ional Council needs a com- plementary staff of 6, therefore, a total of 1,236 staff is required to man the 206 Traditional Councils. However, the Traditional Councils are operating with a staff of 614, which is about half the number required.

    The Committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance should provide adequate r esources, to enable the Ministry engage additional staff to help dispose of the backlog of cases before the Houses of Chiefs and ensure the smooth running of the Traditional Councils.

    The Committee was however, happy to note that the Ministry was able to engage 6 counsel to assist in the speedy adjudication of chieftaincy disputes by Judicial Committees in the year 2014.

    An efficient human resource in effective service delivery cannot be over­emphasised. In this regard, the Committee recognises the need to build the capacity of staff of the Ministry to enable them deliver. However, in the year 2014, only 15 staff of the Ministry received training due to inadequate resources.

    The Committee therefore, recommends that the necessary resources should be released to the Ministry to enable it build the capacity of its human resource.

    The Ministry, in the year 2015 will continue to facilitate the resolution of chieftaincy disputes through various processes to foster peace. It is worth

    noting that in the year 2013, the Ministry facilitated the resolution of 40 chieftaincy cases by Judicial Committees of the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs through the judicial process and amicably settled 91 cases through the ADR process.

    However, in the year 2014, only 4 cases were resolved through the judicial process while a single case could not be settled through the ADR process due to inadequate funding.

    For the year 2015, the Ministry intends to facilitate the resolution of 60 chieftaincy cases through the judicial process and amicably settle 80 disputes through the ADR process. It is no gainsaying that chiefs play a distinctive role in promoting peace within the society.

    However, the reduction in the allocation for Goods and Services may pose a serious challenge to the execution of this programme. Therefore, the Commit tee r ecommends that the Ministry of Finance should provide the needed resources to the Ministry to facilitate the adjudication of cases.

    The Committee observed that the project on “Research and Codification of Lines of Succession Applicable to Stools/Skins” would be undertaken in the year 2015 and it is estimated that twenty (20) l ines of ch ieftaincy succession would be documented and verified. Research has established that, chief- taincy disputes are minimal in areas where lines of succession are codified thus, the Committee urges the Ministry of Finance to make timely release of funds to enable the Ministry effectively carry out this activity.

    Conclusion

    The Ministry of Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs contributes to the socioeconomic development of the country through the preservation, conservation and
    Chairman of Committee (Mr K. M. Woyome) 12:50 p.m.


    promotion of traditional institutions and values that project the Ghanaian identity.

    However, the Ministry, over the year s, has been bedevi l led with inadequate allocations, late releases and the non-release of funds, thus delaying the execution of most of its planned programmes and projects. In the opinion of the Committee, delays in the completion of projects could result in an overall increase in costs.

    The Ministry projects that an amount of GH¢21,347,168.00 would be required for its programmes and activities for year 2015. The Committee therefore urges the Ministry of Finance to consider providing additional resources, to make up for the shortfall in allocation and give some priority to the Ministry in the distribution of resources.

    This notwithstanding, the Committee recommends for the approval of the House, a sum of nineteen million, five-hundred and forty-six thousand, seven-hundred and eighty-five Ghana cedis (GH¢19,546,785.00) for the implementation of the programmes of the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs for the 2015 financial year.

    Respectfully submitted.

    Question put and Motion agreed to.

    Resolved accordingly.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:50 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader? [Pause.]
    Mr Agbesi 12:50 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, we can take item number 40.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:50 p.m.
    Item what?
    Mr Agbesi 12:50 p.m.
    Item number number 40.
    Dr A. A Osei 12:50 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, item 40. I will do it on behalf of the Chairman.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:50 p.m.
    Very well. Item number 40—by the Chairman of the Committee.
    MOTIONS 12:50 p.m.
    Chairman of the Committee) 12:50 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that notwithstanding the provisions of Standing Order 80 (1) which require that no Motion shall be debated until at least forty-eight hours have elapsed between the date on which notice of the Motion is given and the date on which the Motion is moved, the Motion for the adoption of the Report of the Finance Committee on the Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited, relating to a 360MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant Facility at Aboadze may be moved today.
    Mr Forson 12:50 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Resolved accordingly.
    Mr Agbesi 12:50 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, item number
    41.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 12:50 p.m.
    Very well; by the Chairman of the Committee.
    Government Consent and Support Agreement between Government of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana
    Limited
    Dr Anthony A. Osei (on behalf of the
    Chairman of the Finance Committee 12:50 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I present the Report.
    Introduction
    The Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited relating to a 360 MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant at Aboadze and GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana, Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited and Eksportskredit Norge (as Lenders Agent) relating to a 360 MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant at Aboadze were presented to Parliament on behalf of the Hon Minister for Energy and Petroleum by the Hon Deputy Minister for Energy and Petroleum, Mr John Abdulai Jinapor on Thursday, 27th November, 2014 and referred to the Finance Committee for consideration and report in accordance with article 181(1), (2) and (5) of the 1992 Constitution and Order 169 of the Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana.
    Pursuant to the referral, the Committee met with the Hon Minister for Energy and Petroleum, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Hon Deputy Minister for Finance, Mr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson and officials of the Ministries of Energy and Petroleum and Finance and the Electricity Company of Ghana and considered the referral.
    The Committee is grateful to the Hon Ministers and officials of the two Ministries and the Electricity Company of Ghana for the assistance.
    Reference
    The Committee referred to the following additional documents during the deliberations:
    The 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
    The Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana.
    Background
    As part of the Government's policy thrust to increase the installed capacity of the country's electricity generation from the current 2,000 MW to about 5,000 MW by 2016, Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Jacobsen in December, 2014 executed a power Purchase Agreement (PPA) under which Jacobsen agreed to supply ECG with 360MW of electrical power and energy under a 25- year term.
    As part of the PPA arrangement for Jacobsen requested for government support as a form of guarantee to back- up ECG payments, since one of the key challenges facing the development of private power plants in Ghana is bankability.
    The GCSA and GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agree- ment and Power Purchase Agreement are therefore, needed to give comfort to financial institutions to support IPPs in Ghana.
    The project
    The project involves the development, ownership, operation and management of
    Chairman of the Finance Committee 12:50 p.m.


    Deed of Acknowledgement

    The Minister explained to the Committee that the Deed of Acknowledge- ment allows the lenders the first right to take over and execute the project when project company defaults in execution. The purpose of this is to give the lender the comfort and assurance that the project will be completed.

    Conclusion

    The Committee upon a thorough examination of the Agreement is of the view that, the project when completed has the capacity to increase the country's installed capacity by 13 per cent. Again, the project when completed will make it possible to supply electric power to Ghanaians and help address the perennial power shortages in the country.

    The Committee therefore recommends to the House to adopt its report and approve in accordance with article 174(2) of the 1992 Constitution, the following:

    1. Request for the Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited relating to a 360 MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant Facility at Aboadze.

    2. GCSA Deed of Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana, and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited and Eksportkredit Norge (as Lenders Agent) relating to a 360 MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant Facility at Aboadze.

    Respectfully submitted.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1 p.m.
    Very well.
    Minister for Energy and Petroleum (Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah) 1 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Mr Speaker, I think that the points that have been made are correct. This Jacobsen Agreement as you know, is an export credit and because of that, it reflects in cheaper tariffs than the other Agreement.
    Also, there is a separate Agreement for fuel, which is important for this plant.
    Mr Speaker, the point has already been made. We cannot over-emphasise the importance of adding more generation to stablise our power supply.
    So, Mr Speaker, I would ask Hon Members to support the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 1 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I understand the Hon Ranking Member to say that, by that one, we have covered item number
    43.
    Some Hon Members 1 p.m.
    No!
    Dr A. A. Osei 1 p.m.
    We should do item number 42 before item number 43. But item number 43 would be almost consequential.
    Mr Agbesi 1 p.m.
    So, we go to item 42.
    RESOLUTIONS 1 p.m.
    Minister for Finance) 1 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that
    WHEREAS by the provisions of article 181 of the Constitution and section 10 of the Loans Act, 1970 (Act 335), the terms and conditions of any guarantee by the Govern- ment of Ghana on behalf of any public institution or authority shall
    not come into operation unless the said terms and conditions have been laid before Parliament and approved by Parliament by a Resolution supported by the votes of a majority of all Members of Parliament;
    PURSUANT to the provisions of the said article 181 of the Constitution and section 10 of the Loans Act, (Act 335) at the request of the Government of Ghana acting through the Minister responsible for Finance, there has been laid before Parliament the terms and conditions of a Government Consent and Support Agreement (GCSA) between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited relating to a 360MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant Facility at Aboadze.
    THIS HONOURABLE HOUSE 1 p.m.
    Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah 1 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Resolved accordingly.
    MOTION 1 p.m.
    Chairman of the Committee (Mr James K. Avedzi) 1 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that notwithstanding the provisions of Standing Order 80 (1) which require that no Motion shall be debated until at least, forty-eight hours have elapsed between the date on which notice of the Motion is given and the date on which the Motion is moved, the Motion for the adoption of the Report of the Finance Committee on the Government Acknow- ledgement and Consent Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited and Eksportkredit Norge (as Lenders Agent) relating to a 360MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant Facility at Aboadze may be moved today.
    Dr Anthony A. Osei 1 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Resolved accordingly.
    Government Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement between GoG and
    Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited and Eksportkredit Norge
    Chairman of the Finance Committee (Mr James K. Avedzi) 1 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg
    to move, that this Honourable House adopts the Report of the Finance Committee on the Government Acknowledgement and Consent Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited and Eksportkredit Norge (as Lenders Agent) relating to a 360MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant Facility at Aboadze.
    In doing so, I refer to the Report presented by the Hon Ranking Member of the Committee.
    Dr Anthony A. Osei 1 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion and crave your indulgence that my Hon Colleague be allowed to make his contribution as at this point.
    Question proposed.
    Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NPP - - Manyia South) 1:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, one may ask, why would a private entity have a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with our utility and still want to go to Government for a buck stop guarantee. Simply put, whatever development cost that you had before your firm was set up, you have to recoup plus interest to make your venture a viable one.
    Mr Speaker, when you look at the development cost for these projects we are approving, which I support, there are certain things that the Ministry would
    have to explain and in subsequent
    Agreements, look at it very carefully. This
    is an Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) Contract and you
    would realise that after purchasing the
    land, there is a development cost and a
    development fee, that total nearly US$40 million. You ask yourself, what is it about?
    What is the development cost about and
    what is the development fee about?
    Mr Speaker, then you come further to
    see that, there are other independent
    engineers -- an EPC contract and an
    independent engineer's fees embedded. Then, you come to commitment and
    interest fees all being paid. So, you begin
    to ask when these things add up, there is
    a substantial amount of money that is going towards one power purchase
    Agreement.
    Mr Speaker, if you look at the one we are approving now, it is US$1.77 million
    per megawatt. If you compare it to what
    we approved earlier, it is US$2.15million
    to US$2.20 million per a single megawatt.
    It has a direct implication on the power purchase Agreement. It is because the power purchase Agreement does not satisfy them wholly or they think the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) can pay, that is why they have rushed back to Government for a buck stop.
    Mr Speaker, we must be very careful. If you look at the Government obligations aside what I am talking about -- we talk about ECG payment obligations not to change laws. You have signed a power purchase Agreement, that is obligatory for the power authority to pay, you have investment laws that are protecting people.
    Why is it specifically not to change laws and what has it got to do with what the Minister for Energy and Petroleum was talking about reforming the distribution sector? We have to be told as a House. When we are going into some of these contracts, we have to be careful. We also have to give an assurance for the granting of permits on time, if all requirements are made.
    Mr Speaker, I do not know why we are giving certain things to companies that have obligations. The Minister for Energy and Petroleum cannot affect the Environment Protection Agency (EPA).
    Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NPP - - Manyia South) 1:10 p.m.


    So, for that matter, if you submit your Environmental Impact Assessment documents and the EPA is not happy with them, you would say that you the developer have submitted them, so, they should unduly delay you. What kind of agreement is this? I am praying that we look into subsequent Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) very carefully. I cannot give you a PPA and guarantee you take or pay for 25 years and ask me to give all these obligations you are giving. Then what is that about?

    The PPA guarantees an equity on your investment and a return on your investment that is profitable. So, we have to be careful. If you look at the other one that I talked about, there are even other fees and duties, meanwhile, there is a total import waiver of all taxes, yet, you have put in 24.89 million for other fees and duties. What duties? Duties to who? There is even a part of the Agreement that talks about EPC import related fees when you are giving all these tax waivers.

    I am just imploring the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum to take a critical look at some of these project breakdowns. This is because we have power plants sitting in Tema right now that nobody wants to take upfront because the PPA is so high. So please, in support of this Agreement, make sure none of the development costs are negotiated far better than what we have.

    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Can we receive some response?
    Mr Forson 1:10 p.m.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    My Hon Colleague was trying to mislead the House. I am saying this because he made reference to the fact that as part of the obligations levied on the Government of Ghana, the Agreement said
    that the Government of Ghana is not to change any law. But it is also important that we stress the entire sentence. The sentence read and with your permission, I beg to quote:
    “Not to change laws to ensure no better or worse situation.”
    Mr Speaker, this is there because the EPC contractor would need to get assurance that while investing in the country, the laws would not be changed to make that contractor worst off. This does not mean that we cannot change any law, but you cannot make the contractor worst off in order to protect the investment that he has made.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Very well.
    What about the other issues that he raised? Will the Minister for Energy and Petroleum be in a position to give us some response?
    Mr Buah 1:10 p.m.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    He has made very important points. Because of the very nature of our power sector and the challenges, some of these issues always come up. We have taken over two years to go through some of these negotiations but I think that it does not hurt to make sure that we go to all lengths to make sure that in the end, Ghana wins in the negotiations.
    We will continue to strive to do that, especially when we improve ECG's condition and ECG continues to be strong enough that they can really have other financial options like the export credit that we had; they have to make a clear distinction between that export credit and Amandi Energy Limited's financing.
    I think that is where we should be going but I have taken note of the points he made in good spirit and we would follow them.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Thank you very much, Hon Member.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 1:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Resolution, item number 48.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Very well. Item 48, Resolution by the Minister.
    RESOLUTIONS 1:10 p.m.
    Minister for Finance) 1:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to move, that
    WHEREAS by the provisions of article 181 of the Constitution and section 10 of the Loans Act, 1970 (Act 335), the terms and conditions of any guarantee by the Govern- ment of Ghana on behalf of any public institution or authority shall not come into operation unless the said terms and conditions have been laid before Parliament and approved by Parliament by a Resolution supported by the votes of a majority of all Members of Parlia- ment;
    PURSUANT to the provisions of the said article 181 of the Constitution and section 10 of the Loans Act, (Act 335) at the request of the Government of Ghana acting through the Minister responsible
    for Finance, there has been laid before Parliament the terms and conditions of a Government Acknow- ledgement and Consent Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and Jacobsen Jelco Ghana Limited and Eksportkredit Norge (as Lenders Agent) relating to a 360MW Combined Cycle Dual Fuel Power Plant Facility at Aboadze.
    THIS HONOURABLE HOUSE 1:10 p.m.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Any seconder?
    Dr A. A. Osei 1:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put Motion agreed to.
    Resolved accordingly.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Yes Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 1:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, earlier in the day, we stood down the Business Statement.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Very well.
    Let us take the Business Statement.
    BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE 1:10 p.m.
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Member, are you up on a point of order?
    Dr Mark Assibey-Yeboah 1:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, earlier in the morning, we were told that the Majority Leader was the one going to present the Business Statement and we do not know what has changed that the Deputy Majority Leader is now presenting it. So, we would want to know why he is now presenting the Business Statement. What has changed?
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Very well.
    Hon Deputy Majority Leader, can you tell us why?
    Mr Agbesi 1:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, in the morning, we informed the House that the Majority Leader and Chairman of the Business Committee was called to perform an urgent business and that if by a certain
    time, he was not back, I, the Vice Chairman of the Committee, would present the Business Statement for the coming week.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:10 p.m.
    Hon Members, let us allow him to present the Business Statement because without the Business Statement, there will be no business for next week. That is the problem.
    So, please, go ahead.
    Mr Agbesi 1:10 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I present the Business Statement on behalf of the Majority Leader and Chairman of the Business Committee.
    Mr Speaker, the Committee met yesterday, Thursday, 11th December, 2014 and arranged Business of the House for the Seventh Week ending Friday, 19th December, 2014.
    Mr Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 56 (1), the Committee accordingly submits its Report as follows:
    Arrangement of Business
    Question(s)
    Mr Speaker, the Committee has programmed the following Ministers to respond to Questions asked of them during the week:
    No. of Question(s)
    i. Minister for Food and Agriculture -- 2
    ii. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources -- 2
    Total number of Questions -- 4
    expected to attend upon the House to respond to four (4) Questions during the
    week. The Questions are of the following types:
    i. Urgent -- 3 ii. Oral -- 1
    Statements
    Mr Speaker, pursuant to Order 70(2), Ministers of State may be permitted to make Statements of Government policy. Mr Speaker may also admit Statements to be made in the House by Hon Members in accordance with Order 72.
    Minister for Youth and Sports to brief the House
    Mr Speaker, the Business Committee hereby informs Hon Members that the Minister for Youth and Sports is expected to brief the House on the financing of the Black Stars before, during and after the 2014 World Cup tournament in Brazil. The Minister is scheduled to attend upon the House on Thursday, 18th December 2014.
    Bills, Papers and Reports
    Mr Speaker, Bills may be presented to the House for First Reading and those of urgent nature may be taken through the various stages in one day in accordance with Order 119. Papers and committee reports may also be presented to the House.
    Motions and Resolutions
    Mr Speaker, Motions may be debated and their consequential Resolutions, if any, taken during the week.
    Sitting of the House on Monday/Saturday/ extended Sittings
    Mr Speaker, the Business Committee reminds Hon Members that the House is scheduled to sit on Monday, 15 th December, 2014. Depending on the exigencies of the state of business, the
    House may have extended sittings to enable the completion of scheduled business.
    Mr Speaker, having regard to the constitutional obligation imposed on Parliament, it has become imperative for the House to extend Sittings beyond the scheduled date of Friday, 19th December, 2014. The House is therefore, expected to Sit tomorrow, Saturday, 13th December, 2014 and rise sine die on Monday, 22nd December, 2014.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:20 p.m.
    Hon Deputy Majority Leader, what time tomorrow? I think you need to state it.
    Mr Agbesi 1:20 p.m.
    In view of the fact that the Speaker's health walk will take place, it is expected that Sitting will commence tomorrow after the health walk. So, the expected time would be probably, 10.00 a.m. after the walk.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:20 p.m.
    I thought the time agreed upon was 11.00 a.m.?
    Mr Agbesi 1:20 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, it was scheduled that the health walk would end by 9.00 a.m. [Interruption.]
    Dr A. A. Osei 1:20 p.m.
    I am informed by my Leadership that the agreed time was 11.00 a.m. So, I am surprised that he said 10.00 a.m.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:20 p.m.
    Hon Deputy Majority Leader, it is 11.00 a.m.
    Mr Agbesi 1:20 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, my attention has been drawn to the fact that the Sitting would commence at 11.00 a.m. after the health walk.
    Mr Speaker, the purpose of Sitting tomorrow, Saturday, 13th December, 2014,
    Mr Speaker, two (2) Ministers are
    Mr Agbesi 11 a.m.
    is to enable the “District Electoral Areas and Designation of Units Instrument, 2014” come to force at the expiration of twenty-one (21) Sitting days.
    The Business Committee is, however, mindful of the forthcoming health walk, and that is why Sitting will commence at

    Mr Speaker, the Business Committee implores all Hon Members, that as representatives of the people, the House should go the extra mile to fulfil the critical responsibility placed on Members of Parliament.
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 11 a.m.
    Hon Member, I believe that after he had presented the Report, if there are any issues you want to take up -- Yes, use the microphone.
    Mr Agbesi 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, it is expected that Hon Members would abide by the rules --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 11 a.m.
    If there is any issue, you can take it up after the presentation. [Interruption.]
    Very well.
    Resume your seat. You can take it up after he has presented the Report.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader, proceed.
    Mr Agbesi 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, Mr Speaker, in accordance with Standing Order 160 (2) and subject to Standing Order 53, the Committee submits to this Honourable House, the order in which the Business of the House shall be taken during the week.

    Statements

    Presentation of Papers --

    Report of the Finance Committee on the following:

    National Fiscal Stabilisation Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2014.

    Special Import Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2014

    Internal Revenue (Amendment) Bill,

    2014

    Presentation and First Reading of Bills --

    Minerals Development Fund Bill,

    2014.

    University of Environment and Sustainable Development Bill, 2014.

    Motions --

    (a) That this Honourable House approves the sum of GH¢1, 629,439,674 for the services of the General Government Services for the year ending 31st December,

    2015.

    (Minister for Finance)

    (b) That this Honourable House approves the sum of GH¢10,337,634 for the services of the Office of the Head of Civil Service for the year ending 31st December 2015.

    (Minister for Finance)

    (c) That this Honourable House approves the sum of GH¢199, 576,867 for the services of the Judicial Service for the year ending 31st December 2015.

    (Majority Leader)

    (d) That this Honourable House approves the sum of GH¢185, 194,527 for the services of Parliament for the year ending 31st December, 2015.

    (Majority Leader)

    (e) That this Honourable House approves the sum of GH¢199,576,867 for the services of Other Government Obligations for the year ending 31 st December, 2015.

    (Minister for Finance)

    Consideration Stage of Bills --

    Customs Bill, 2014 (Continuation of debate)

    Youth Employment Agency Bill,

    2014.

    Customs and Excise (Petroleum Taxes and Petroleum Related Levies) (Amendment) Bill, 2014.

    Committee sittings.

    Urgent Questions --
    Dr Sagre Bambangi (Walewale) 11 a.m.
    To ask the Minister for Food and Agriculture when the distribution of subsidised fertilisers to farmers will commence in the ongoing cropping season (2014).
    Questions --
    Q.227. Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto (Kwadaso): To ask the Minister for Food and Agriculture what practical steps and policy measures the Ministry is taking to reduce the rising cost of import of basic food items like rice, tomatoes, cooking oil, poultry, meat, et cetera.
    Statements.
    Motions --
    Second Reading of Bills --
    National Fiscal Stabilisation Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2014.
    Special Import Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2014
    Internal Revenue (Amendment) Bill,
    2014
    Consideration Stage of Bills --
    Customs Bill, 2014 (Continuation of debate)
    Youth Employment Agency Bill,
    2014
    Customs and Excise (Petroleum Taxes and Petroleum Related Levies) (Amendment) Bill, 2014.
    Committee sittings.

    Urgent Questions --

    (a) Mr Emmanuel Nii Ashie-Moore (Adentan): To ask the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources whether the Aviation land at Adentan, which was compulsorily acquired by Government is being

    used for the purpose for which it was acquired and if not, whether title to the land has been reverted to the allodial owners.

    (b) Mr Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Nsawam-Adoagyiri): To ask the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources whether the parcel of land behind the Nsawam Cannery, which has Executive Instrument placed on it, has been leased out to a private individual or corporate body.

    Statements.

    Presentation and First Reading of Bills --

    Appropriation Bill, 2015.

    Consideration Stage of Bills --

    Customs Bill, 2014 (Continuation of debate)

    Youth Employment Agency Bill,

    2014.

    National Fiscal Stabilisation Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2014.

    Special Import Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2014.

    Internal Revenue (Amendment) Bill,

    2014.

    Committee sittings.

    Statements --

    Minister for Youth and Sports to make a comprehensive statement on the financing of the Black Stars

    before, during and after the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

    Motions --

    Second Reading of Bills --

    Appropriation Bill, 2015.

    Consideration Stage of Bills --

    Customs Bill, 2014 (Continuation of debate)

    Youth Employment Agency Bill,

    2014.

    Appropriation Bill, 2015.

    Committee sittings.

    Statements --

    Motions --

    Third Reading of Bills --

    Youth Employment Agency Bill,

    2014.

    Customs Bill, 2014.

    Customs and Excise (Petroleum Taxes and Petroleum Related Levies) (Amendment) Bill, 2014.

    National Fiscal Stabilisation Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2014.

    Special Import Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2014

    Internal Revenue (Amendment) Bill,

    2014.

    Appropriation Bill, 2015.

    Committee sittings.

    Mr Speaker, respectfully, submitted.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 11 a.m.
    Thank you, very much.
    Yes, Hon Member, now you have the floor.
    Mr Afenyo-Markin 11 a.m.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker for your graciousness.
    Mr Speaker, the Hon Deputy Majority Leader, in explaining the rationale behind our coming to this Chamber tomorrow did say that this is to enable us make up for the Electoral Area Constitutional Instrument which has been laid, that is the mandatory 21 Sitting days. This is because if we do not Sit tomorrow, it means that the 21 Sitting days would not have matured.
    So, the question is, does that mean that we are merely coming to the House to just meet that 21 Sitting days thing or we are coming to do very serious business?
    Mr Speaker, if we are coming to do some other Business, which is very urgent, is it a case that it has just been realised that we would need to come? Is it the case? I am surprised because I believe that the Deputy Majority Leader --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 11 a.m.
    Hon Member, you have put across your case and it is enough; let him respond.
    Mr Afenyo-Markin 11 a.m.
    So, Mr Speaker, I wanted to -- [Interruption.]
    Mr Speaker, I am being heckled but I am under your full protection.
    Mr Speaker, since you have directed him to respond for me to come back, I would —
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 11 a.m.
    I have not said you would come back. You have put across your case; he has to respond. So, allow him to respond.
    Mr Afenyo-Markin 11 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I would hold back the subsequent points, so that he could respond. I am exceedingly grateful.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Majority Leader?
    Mr Agbesi 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Hon Member should choose his words carefully.
    Mr Speaker, we have said that as Hon Members of Parliament, we are obliged to perform our constitutional duties; we are not thereby coming merely to Sit. He used the phrase, ‘are we merely coming?' We are coming to do Parliamentary business and at the day of Sitting, the Order Paper would be produced giving you the Business to be done. We are not just coming merely because we are coming, that is why I said he should choose his words very carefully.
    So, it is not that we are coming merely for coming sake, we are coming to do our duty as Members of Parliament and to do our constitutional duty.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Thank you very much.
    Hon Members, we should not belabour this point. It is the Business Committee that has met and has taken the decision and he is only presenting it to plenary. So, it is a decision that has been arrived at by Leadership of both sides.So, let us make some progress.
    Yes, Hon Member?
    Mr Isaac K. Asiamah 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the point made by my Hon Colleague is very important. Mr Speaker, we have constitutionally mandated bodies to perform their work and they are supposed to work not at the detriment of our own programme as Parliament. Therefore, if they fail to perform their duties sometimes, it does not mean that they should compel Parliament to Sit at the time we are not supposed to be Sitting.
    Mr Speaker, these are very important issues. We are coming here at 6 1:30 p.m.
    00 a.m. to do exercise. Yes, we accept it. It is for our own health but after 6.00 a.m. -- Maybe, two or three hours' walk -- Some of us would prefer we walk for about five hours, so that we would do more exercise.
    After these hours of strenuous walk, you do not expect us to come here with the sweat and everything to come and Sit in the Chamber. Elsewhere, they have changing rooms and other decent places where they can have some washdown and everything.
    But after our walk, where are we going to change our dress, from our sporting wear to the normal decent dresses that are allowed in Parliament? Mr Speaker, are you going to allow us to come here tomorrow with our sports kits to come and Sit here? If there is going to be a special dispensation for MPs to come here with our sports kits, then fine, after the walk, we will all come here and continue with parliamentary business.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Member for Old Tafo?
    Dr A. A. Osei 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, it looks like Hon Members are anticipating that tomorrow's dress code may be varied in their interest, so that after reception, we may be allowed to come here in sportswear. It would be most convenient, so that we do not have to go home and come back. The Speaker should consider it.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    I agree with you. We can bend the rules, so that on that day --
    Dr A. A. Osei 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, you win.
    My concern is, there is an indication here that we may have to Sit through to the 22nd December, 2014. It is possible we may not know that till we finish with the business week next week.
    Mr Speaker, a lot of Hon Members have plans to travel and so on and so forth. The sooner we know for sure, if we are Sitting on 22nd December, 2014, the better. It should not be hanging in the air till next end of week. Some people may have to travel. It looks like we may rise on 22nd December, 2014.
    Is it a fact and is it dependent on the approval of the Electoral Commission's (EC) Constitutional Instrument (C. I.)? If it is, let us be clear. When we leave here, we should know that we are Sitting definitely, on 22nd December. This is because that is when the last day of the EC's C. I. expires -- then we can take our decision. The way you put it, you have parliamentary business and you say “to enable us”.
    That is the crux of his trouble. If he had said we were doing parliamentary business including -- I am also informed, for example, that the Appropriations Bill is being programmed for --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Hon Member, have you looked at item number 3 (ii)?
    Dr A. A. Osei 1:30 p.m.
    Yes.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    It is there as 22nd December, 2014.
    Dr. A. A. Osei 1:30 p.m.
    That is why it is worrying. The impression is that, the main reason we have to Sit tomorrow is because of EC's matter. That should not drive our agenda. That is his point. We have other businesses to do, which may take us to 22nd December, including -- But that should not be the paramount factor. Why should I --
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Hon Member, I agree with you except that the way it was presented would create the impression that, it is only doing that purposely for that. But there are other items.
    Dr A. A. Osei 1:30 p.m.
    Yes, he should say that the Business Statement was wrong in giving us the impression that, that is the reason. If there are other matters, then we will accept that.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Member for Wa West?
    Mr Joseph Y. Chireh 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, this issue is the fault of the Business Committee to have put it the way they did. They just say we are coming to meet tomorrow. If you look at the number of Papers that we have not dealt with and by the close of the day some committees would have finished with their reports, we have a lot of work to do tomorrow, if we indeed, we want to work.
    If we are to Sit, you do not have to give any reason for the Sitting. Among the Leadership, once they agree that we are going to have a Sitting, why do you spell it out? But whose fault is it in any case, that this unnecessary Saturday Sitting is coming?
    We have to hold people responsible for this inconvenience. We should come to work on Saturday. Yes, that is our duty. Even if it is Sunday, we will come -- on the day of the Sabbath. But let us make sure that people who should carry out things timeously should do so and not just inconvenience all of us at any time and we are obliged to do things like that. Whose fault is it?
    I think that the Speakership and the Leadership should go into this matter and let us be very clear. Why should we be wasting parliamentary and public time, which is very important? We come here sometimes and for two hours, we have not even started Sitting. Why should we continue to do that? I do not think that we should continue like that.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Second Deputy Majority Whip?
    Mr Ahmed Ibrahim 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the Business Committee did not just put it there like this. We foresaw a possible danger if we were to rise on the 19th December, 2014. We foresaw that even all that we had intended to do before 19th December, 2014, we had to be doing extended Sittings.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Thank you very much.
    Hon Afenyo-Markin, I thought some people have spoken to your concern? I would like to satisfy you.
    Mr Afenyo-Markin 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, it is so but the - [Interruption.]
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Member?
    Mr Bedzrah 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I would want an assurance from you that the rules are relaxed, that tomorrow we can come in our sportswear to this Chamber.
    Secondly, Mr Speaker, the last time we had the health walk, just as Hon Asiamah has said, we spent close to about four hours walking the length and breadth of Accra; we got here exhausted. Some of us had not exercised for a very long time, and tomorrow after the exercise, we walk into the Chamber at 11 a.m? I think we should move it forward a bit. If it is even 1.00 p.m. we are ready to relax and come back and do parliamentary work.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Member for Old Tafo?
    Dr A. A. Osei 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, my Hon Colleague wanted to raise an issue of some language that was used by the Hon Deputy Majority Leader and not to go back to the issue, if you can give him the chance.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:30 p.m.
    Very well.
    Mr Afenyo-Markin 1:30 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, on the issue of language, I believe that the very concern I expressed, based on the way the Business Statement was drafted, has been expressed by all. But my most senior Member had said that we, as Membrs of Parliament, must choose our words carefully. I think that, that was in bad taste because I did not intend to spite the Business Committee.
    On the use of the word “merely”, Mr Speaker, I used it in the context that if you say that we are only coming to Sit to be able to meet that mandatory 21 days, then it is a question mark.
    Mr Speakers, if you may recall, in October, when we were called upon to even consider some loans, the general public expressed some concerns. Why do we come for just one day and all that? So, I am saying this just for the image of Parliament, so that next time, you draft it that we are here for parliamentary business. That I agree.
    But if you say that we are coming to Sit to meet that, you do not say that I have used the wrong word by the use of “mere”. You are wrong and I most respectfully call on you as my learned senior at the Bar to withdraw same. I am grateful.
    Mr Agbesi 1:40 p.m.
    You are not only talking to Hon Members, but you are talking to Ghanaians and somebody may take it that, we come just for the sake of coming. But I explained that, when we come, the Order Paper would tell us what we should do. But all said and done, your concerns are taken on board. Particularly, when someone raised the issue of the attire for the day.
    Yes, since after the health walk, the T- shirts that would be used for the training, we may not be able to go home and change. Leadership would look at it and we would see the direction.
    Again, it has already been answered, that, it was the Electoral Commission (EC) that delayed in bringing the Legislative Instruments (L.I.) and that next time, we would impress upon them to come as early as possible, so that these challenges would be overcome. But whatever it is,
    we are pleading with you to come tomorrow to perform our duties as Hon Members of the House. That is what we want to say.
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:40 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Asiamah
    Mr I. K. Asiamah 1:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, the work of the Business Committee is to present proposals to this House for acceptance or otherwise. So, whenever they present proposals, they should not be so defensive.
    It is up to us as Hon Members to polish it; that is our job. It is for the whole House to take a decision on the Business for the ensuing week. That was what the Hon Colleague sought to do. So, please, when they come here, they should realise that these are Colleagues who also have ideas to express, who have, indeed genuine concerns to express.
    Mr Speaker, so, we urge Leadership that, when they come to present the Business Statement, it should not be like it is they against us. It is for the entire House and that should be the sentiments of the Leadership. It should not be like we come here and we are opposed to what they have to say. If it is the exclusive work of Leadership, they would not bring it to the plenary.
    Once we are the persons who are supposed to finally give approval to whatever they have done, they should be more humble and modest enough to accept our suggestions and criticisms. It is in the good faith of Parliament.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:40 p.m.
    Very well.
    Hon Majority Leader.
    Mr Speaker, we know by our Standing Orders, Order 40 (2) 1:40 p.m.
    “The House shall Sit on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Sittings shall, subject to the direction of Mr Speaker, ordinarily commence at ten o'clock in the forenoon and shall ordinarily conclude at two o'clock in the afternoon.”
    These are the normal Sitting days of the House and so, to put in the Report inviting Hon Members to Sit on Saturdays, there must be compelling reasons Hon Members should be asked to do so.
    Mr Speaker, ordinarily, the rest of the Business we could finish them on the normal Sitting days, but because we needed a number of Sitting days for this Instrument to come into effect, it has
    become compelling for us to Sit outside the normal Sitting days and that is why it has to be included in the Report.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:40 p.m.
    Hon Majority Leader, as far as that issue is concerned, we have resolved it.
    Thank you.
    Yes, Hon Members, an Hon Member who is the Chairman of the Government Assurances Committee, in his typical position as the Chairman of the Assurances Committee, is asking for an assurance that we bend the rules tomorrow for Hon Members to come in with their sportswear. [Interruptions.] Hon Members, let us discuss it, so that we can look at the way forward.
    Mr Afenyo-Markin 1:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, I agree that perhaps, that proposal could be considered. But Mr Speaker, we have pretty old ladies and pretty young ladies among us, some of these sportswear, Mr Speaker, -- [Interruption.] I can mention my mother Hon Boforo and my mother aunty Pat -- we have some here. And then we have my sister Adjoa and the rest--
    Mr Speaker, the two of them there, the one who recently married -- The former Deputy Minister for Women and Children's Affairs she is there [Laughter.]. Mr Speaker, they are young and their sportswear, you would never know. So, let us tread with caution, allowing sportswear. [Laughter.]
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:40 p.m.
    Very well.
    We have heard you. Let us hear other Hon Members contribute.
    Mr Ebenezer O. Terlabi 1:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, [Interruption] -- This is mischief, I believe that the Hon Member has some ideas other than that. Because given the situation in the Chamber, I do not think that coming in with any kind of sportswear would create any kind of problem for us here.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:40 p.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Minority Leader, I saw you up.
    Mr Nitiwul 1:40 p.m.
    Mr Speaker, when this matter came up at the Leadership level for discussion, the thinking of Mr Speaker was very clear, that we should shift the Sitting from 11.00 and beyond. The idea was to let people be able to freshen up a little before they can come. We hope not to spend a lot of time here, once we are able to cross that barrier that he mentioned. But to get people to bring in sportswear, shorts, I am not too comfortable with it.
    Maybe, bring African wear like we normally do on Fridays. You have your jeans trousers with your African wear. It would help us. But to bring in the shorts and other things, Mr Speaker, it would not help us.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:40 p.m.
    All right Hon Asiamah, after that I would listen to the Hon Majority Leader.
    Mr I. K. Asiamah 1:40 p.m.
    I am wondering why my Hon Leader here is equating sportswear to shorts -- only short dresses. Mr Speaker, that is not the case. I mean we have very decent sportswear in town and they know them. So, there are decent ones that we can wear tomorrow.
    The issue is, after the walk, obviously, what do we do? Do we go home and come back since we do not have changing rooms here? So, there is a compelling reason we need to be casual. It could be T-shirts. No! The definition of “sportswear” should not confuse people; maybe, it is the definition of “sportswear” that is confusing people.
    “Sportswear” means “anything that would enable you to be a little more active, and more athletic.” That is all that it is.
    That is the definition. So, if you have an African wear, that is easier that you can wear to do sports, that is alright.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:50 a.m.
    Yes, Hon Adwoa Sarfo?
    Ms Sarah Adwoa Safo 1:50 a.m.
    Thank you very much, Mr Speaker.
    Mr Speaker, with the issue on the floor; really, if we, women are supposed to come in our sportswear, it would not be conducive for this environment. [Interruption] -- Let us be truthful with ourselves -- [Interruption.]
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:50 a.m.
    No! Hon Members, let us hear her.
    Ms Safo 1:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, again, to go for a sports walk or a health walk in an African wear, is also not appropriate. So, for us to get to a middle point, reaching a consensus, probably, the time could be shifted -- Walking, we would be sweaty, and sticky, et cetera, and you do not expect us to come and Sit in the Chamber, having walked for about an hour sweating in this scorching sun.

    Thank you.
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:50 a.m.
    Yes, Hon Member?
    Mr A. Ibrahim 1:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I am thinking that maybe, for the first time, we can learn from what our Brothers in the Westminster do, by Sitting in the afternoon. They Sit at 2:00 p.m., so that when we come here, we can go back, wash and come and have our normal parlia- mentary Sitting.
    When you listen to some Hon Members, they are agitating that during the week days, we should start to learn to Sit in the afternoon, where Hon Members can do other non official work in the morning, and then in the afternoon, we come here.
    rose
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:50 a.m.
    Yes, Hon Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture?
    Dr A. Y. Alhassan 1:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, my humble suggestion is that in view of the circumstances of tomorrow, it being Saturday, when people would normally like to dress casually because it is a day to relax, and the fact that we would have a health walk, I would appeal that we would make dressing to the Chamber flexible, but decent.
    Thank you, Mr Speaker.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:50 a.m.
    Yes, Hon Gifty Kusi?
    Mrs Gifty Eugenia Kusi 1:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I support those who said we should come at twelve. Two O' clock in the afternoon is too late because by then, you would have pounded your fufu, eaten and be feeling lazy.
    Mr Speaker, Saturdays are the only days that I pound fufu. So, we should come at 12.00 p.m., finish and then go to continue with our fufu.
    Thank you.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:50 a.m.
    Can we hear from the Majority Leader?
    Mr Bagbin 1:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, I totally agree with Hon Members, who are suggesting that we Sit later in the day, and not at the normal Sitting time of 10.00 in the forenoon.
    Mr Speaker, I agree that after the health walk, we need to go and fresh up, and then wear the usual African wear like we do on Fridays, and then come back to commence the Business.
    I live on the Spintex Road, and I am aware of the traffic there. But I believe noon, we should be able to come back to do so. This is because the health walk is scheduled to start at 6: 00 a. m. to about 7. 00 a.m. to 7.30 a. m.; we should have finished by then.
    That is the schedule given by the Rt Hon Speaker. So, after that, Members could go home, freshen up and come back for us to commence business at 12 .00 noon.
    I think that would be in order, and should be accepted. For what they call “sports wear”, it is so undefined that it would be difficult to accept, and so, we should go by this.
    Thank you very much, Mr Speaker.
    Mr First Deputy Speaker 1:50 a.m.
    Thank you very much.
    If I get the sense of the House, then we would have to shift the time from 11: 00 a. m. to 12.00 noon, so that Members can go and freshen up, and come back decently dressed.
    All right.
    Hon Members, the Business Statement for the Seventh Week ending Friday, 19th December, 2014, is accordingly adopted.
    Yes, Hon Majority Leader?
    Mr Alban S. K. Bagbin 1:50 a.m.
    Mr Speaker, it is almost 2.00 o'clock in the afternoon, just about three minutes to 2.00 o'clock by the watch in front of me. So, I beg to
    move, that the House do adjourn till tomorrow, when we have agreed that business would commence at 12.00 noon.
    Mr Dominic B. A. Nitiwul 1:50 a.m.
    Yes, Mr Speaker, I beg to second the Motion.
    Question put and Motion agreed to.
    ADJOURNMENT 1:50 a.m.
  • The House was accordingly adjourned at 1.53 p. m. till Saturday, 13th December, 2014 at 12.00 p.m.