If I were Catherine Gotani Hara

Speaker of Parliament, I would consider taking stern and prompt action against members of Parliament for continued absenteeism because this has been going on for too long.

I would realise, if I were madam Speaker, that verbal threats such as ‘strict measures’ are not working and this is the time to act tougher.

Oh yes, I would realise that the bulk of the MPs do not have valid reasons for missing parliamentary sessions and yet they still get away with it while their constituents lack representation  they can trust.

I would ensure that Parliament comes up with a way to discipline these tricksters masquerading as MPs by, among others, effecting salary cuts so that they feel the pinch.

If I were madam Speaker, I would realise that when an MP does not show up for five weeks then it is a cause for concern because it is his or her constituents that are missing out when their MP is enjoying a sound sleep at their expense.

That is if I were Mr. Speaker Sir, but I am not in Catherine Gotani Hara’s shoes.n