Thukten Zangpo 

The Parliamentary Entitlements (Amendment) Bill 2024, introduced in the National Assembly yesterday, seeks to provide  Members of Parliament (MPs) with enhanced benefits and improved facilities, including well-furnished offices, equipment allowances, joining expenses, and bereavement support.

The Parliamentary Entitlements Act 2008 was amended in 2014 to refine and adjust its provisions.

One of the main proposals is for MPs to have access to well-furnished, independent chambers to carry out their duties more effectively.

Additionally, the Bill introduces a one-time lump sum equipment allowance to enable MPs to purchase necessary official equipment such as laptops, iPads, and printers.

The Bill also includes a provision for bereavement expenses, which would entitle the spouse or immediate dependent of an MP who dies while in office to receive an amount equivalent to three months’ salary. Another new provision proposed is a joining allowance to be paid as a lump sum to MPs upon taking office.

Tabling the Bill, the Chairperson of the Legislative Committee, Nyishog-Saephu MP, Kuenga, explained that the amendments aim to strengthen the Parliamentary Entitlements Act and ensure the smooth functioning of Bhutan’s democratic institutions.

He emphasised the need for a clear and robust legal framework to support the legislative body in its work for years to come.

He added that the introduction of the Pay Structure Reform Act of Bhutan 2022 and the Pay Revision Act of Bhutan 2023, both enacted by the third Parliament, has overlapped with the provisions of the Parliamentary Entitlements Act 2008.

“While these newer Acts were enacted with their own distinctive legislative intent, they did not supersede or repeal the provisions of the Parliamentary Entitlements Act 2008,” Kuenga said.

The Bill applies to all the members of Parliament, coherence, and consistency with existing laws by repealing relevant provisions relating to the entitlement of MP in the Pay Structure Reform Act 2022 and Pay Revision Act 2023 as an amendment consequential of the Parliamentary Entitlements (Amendment) Bill 2024 and upholding structured procedure and process for amending the salary and benefits of MPs.

Kuenga said that the importance of rectifying inconsistencies between the Parliamentary Entitlements Act 2008 and Pay Act to enhance the effectiveness of MP’s duties.

He added that the MPs have to be provided with better facilities because of the bigger responsibility they play and since some of the MPs had a high government position before resuming the office.

Kuenga pointed out that some of the iPads purchased five years ago are experiencing functional issues.

The House forwarded the Bill to the Legislative committee for third reading on November 26.