Good time to cut salaries of MPs, President

THE EDITOR: I think it is a good time for us to ask our government representatives – from President to Members of Parliament, to parliamentary secretaries – to take a pay cut. Also all appointments to boards of statutory authorities and state enterprises.

I know our Prime Minister has pooh-poohed this suggestion before. But before the “minister of tax” starts to talk about cutting the amount paid to old age pensioners and the disabled, think about this.

The pensioners have worked their entire lives and are dependent on this small fixed income. The families of the disabled are also dependent on this small allowance to provide for their families.

All members of government, including the President, receive salaries paid by these same citizens, through VAT and so on. They must bite the bullet first. Surely in hard times those citizens who can afford a luxury lifestyle should contribute to assist those in greater need.

I propose at least a 15 per cent cut in their salaries. No tax free-vehicles. No entertainment allowances. No lunch allowances. No gas and travelling allowances. Keep the drivers for the President and Prime Minister. Let us see an example from our leaders.

And by the way, we need procurement legislation now.

ANNE DE SILVA

St Joseph