Parliament to assess NDPC'S long term policy framework

Accra, July 25, GNA - Parliament has requested for more time to assess the long term policy framework of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) to find out the extent of its benefit to the nation.

Mr Alban Bagbin, Majority Leader of Parliament said, although the policy makes sense and would ensure that there is continuity in governance, he requested for time for the members of parliament (MP) to research into the proposal and make useful recommendations to the Commission.

The request was followed by the Commission's presentation of the upcoming national consultation on the floor of parliament to establish a national development plan that would take effective from 2018 to 2057.

Mr Bagbin expressed gratitude of the House to the Commission for engaging them in policies as important as the framework.

Mr Osei Kyei Mensah Mensah Bonsu, Minority Leader, said he was excited about how the constitution has made the Commission friendly in a manner that includes stakeholders and the public in its decision making towards national development.

Professor George Yaw Gyan-Baffour, MP for Wenchi, asked the Commission to link the framework to the budget allocation which would make it applicable.

He urged the Commission to make the policy flexible enough for political parties to come up with their medium term plans.

Mr Muntaka Mubarak, MP for Asawase, said the plan being proposed by the Commission is important and should be put into consideration.

He advised the commissioners to use their technical resources to involve the political parties in their activities in order to be reminded of the dos and don'ts of the policy.

Dr Nii Moi Thompson, Director General of the NDPC, said there is a general overview that the medium-term policy frameworks and their medium term plans developed by the central government and district assemblies do not help, hence the need for a long term plan.

He said in addition to the constitution, such a framework especially the measurable objectives would be informal by the views of Ghanaians at home and abroad, through public consultations as well as submissions By political parties, the Presidency, Judiciary, ministries, departments and agencies, metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies.

The Commission has proposed that the framework be subjected to the decennial reviews by parliament.

Dr Thompson said the goal of the Commission is to build an inclusive and resilient economy; an equitable and tolerant society; safe and sustainable communities; effective and efficient institutions and to promote world peace and justice.

GNA