Islamabad, September 6, 2010

Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat

STANDING COMMITTEE ON CABINET SECRETARIAT

Islamabad, the 6th September, 2010: A meeting of the Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat was held today at 2:30 P. M. in Committee Room No. 7, Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Dewan Ashiq Hussain Bokhari, MNA to discuss the following agenda:-

i. Briefing on the functions/performance and future planning of Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA);

ii. Any other item with the permission of the Chair.

Chairman OGRA started the presentation, during presentation he informed that total energy supply during 2008-09 were 62.5 million tons of oil equivalent (MTOE) out of which oil was 32.1%, gas was 48.3%, LPG was 0.6%, coal was 7.8%, hydroelectricity was 10.6% nuclear electricity was 0.6% and electricity imported was 0.1%. Actual energy consumption was 37.34 MOTE.

Sector wise consumption during 2008-09 in oil was transport at 49.3%, power 42.3%, industrial 5.4%, government 2.1%, domestic 0.5% and agriculture was 0.4%. In gas it was power 31.8%, domestic/residential was 16.9%, fertilizer (fuel+ feed stock) was 15.9%, general industry was 25.1%, transport (CNG) was 7%, commercial was 2.8% and cement sector was 0.6%.

After the presentation Mr. Pervaiz Khan, MNA and other MNAs put some queries which were replied by the OGRA officials.

Islamabad, August 26, 2010

Standing Committee on Commerce

STANDING COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE

Islamabad, the August 26, 2010: Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan, MNA/Chairman Standing Committee on Commerce chaired a meeting on 26th August, 2010 at 02.00 p.m. in Committee Room No.2, Parliament House, Islamabad.

The agenda of the meeting was as under:

i) Further Deliberation on Award of Contract on Pak Pavilion

ii) Any other item with the permission of the Chair.

The Standing Committee on Commerce took cognizance of the fact that while awarding a contract worth US$ 2,834,500 on Pak Pavilion at World Expo Shanghai, China, 2010, all the PPRA 2004 rules were bypassed. TDAP, who was originally entrusted to award the contract was sidelined and another committee headed by Dr. Asam Hussain, the then Advisor of Prime Minister on Petroleum and also Chairman, NRB decided to give it to a company, which was not even among the original bidders. The Ministry was unable to satisfy the Standing Committee that how Dr. Asam Hussain was given the task to head this kind of Tender Awarding Committee. The committee also censured the Ministry for not making the process transparent.

Mrs, Yasmeen Rehman, MNA, Mr. Nauman Islam Sheikh, MNA, Ms. Shireen Arshad Khan, MNA, Mrs. Jamila Gillani, MNA, Mr. Hamid Yar Hiraj, MNA, Mrs. Kashmala Tariq, MNA, Dr. Asam Hussain, Special Physician to the President, Mr. Zaffar Mahmood, Secretary Commerce, Syed Mohib Ullah Shah, Chief Executive, TDAP, Mr. Javed Anwar Khan, D.G. TDAP and other Senior Officers of the Ministry also attended the meeting.

Islamabad, August 26, 2010

Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture

STANDING COMMITTEE ON FOOD & AGRICULTURE

Islamabad, August 26, 2010: Mr. Javed Iqbal Warraich, MNA/ Chairman Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture chaired a meeting on 26th August, 2010 at 10:30 am in Committee Room No. 07, Parliament House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was as following:-

a. Re-discussion and briefing on the performance of Federal Zarai Taraqqiati Bank Limited in the light of meeting of the standing Committee on Food and Agriculture held on 17th July, 2010 in Parliament House, Islamabad.

b. Policy of ZTBL with regard to grant of Insurance, and wave off of all loans (Tube well, tractors input loans and Livestock) in Flood affected areas.

c. Model Villages and the criteria for selection of villages.

d. Any other item with the permission of Chair.

Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada, Mr. Abdul Majeed Khan Khanan Khail, Syed Haider Ali Shah, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Mr. Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao and Sardar Bhadur Ahmed Khan Sihar attended the meeting.

The Committee asserted that ZTBL must come up with efficient ways to revolutionise agriculture lending. The Committee emphasized on the ZTBL to adopt lending to small & marginalised farmers, who are in majority. Bank should devise strategies for lending to farmers in livestock, dairy, fisheries, etc. and for developmental purposes including farm implements, water conservation and infrastructure. ZTBL should establish close liaison with farmers’ associations for financial literacy & marketing of agriculture industry, loan products and for the recovery of outstanding loans. Similarly, farmers’ associations should also develop close linkages with banks, provincial agriculture & extension departments, input suppliers, agriculture marketing companies, etc. and arrange programmes to disseminate knowledge & skills to the farmers at grass root level. The Committee asked the ZTBL to resolve the issues in disbursement of agri-loans to the farming community.

The Committee advised ZTBL to established separate Deposit Wing for facilitation of consumers and proper and transparent working.

The Committee appreciated that ZTBL has improved the balance sheet but there is need to establish road map for flood affected farmers, streamline the process of payments of interest to State Bank of Pakistan and farmers, investment, introduction of technology and credit as coming year will be very crucial for agriculture Sector of Pakistan in view of calamity of flood. The Committee made the following recommendations:-

a. ZTBL to reorganize/ improve credit scheme, introduce innovation and modern technology of tractors, tube wells etc to farmers through private sector as well as training of line and staff of ZTBL.

b. ZTBL to dispose off the claims of farmers affected due to flood on top priority basis.

c. With regard to Insurance Policy, the ZTBL should devise clear policy for individual small farmers/loans, for example crop disease affected areas. In this regard full working plan should be established by Ministry of Food & Agriculture, Ministry of Finance/ Board of Revenue/ Insurance Companies. Ministry of Food & Agriculture should issue notification for declaration of calamity area in view of cropping zone, disease zone and crop susceptibility. Crop Insurance policy should be devised by Ministry of Food & Agriculture.

d. With regard to relief policy in flood affected areas, the Committee recommended that long term loans granted by all Commercial Banks including ZTBL should be waved off.

e. To rehabilitate agriculture land by silting of the flood, ZTBL should extend loans on war footing. The amount of $ 90 crores granted by World Bank should be given to ZTBL to release loans on rate of 1% to farmers. The Government of Pakistan/ Ministry of Food & Agriculture should provide ZTBL Rs. 30 billion and Rs. 26 billion waves off during past. Ministry of Food & Agriculture should make full comprehensive working plan after detailed survey of flood affected areas.

f. With regard to establishment of Model Villages, the Committee recommended to rename the scheme.

g. Ministry of Food & Agriculture to devise water policy for irrigation purposes.

h. The Committee will visit to model village in District Sargodha.

i. ZTBL to establish zonal office at Shekhupura to facilitate the farmers in letter and spirit.

j. Ministry of Food & Agriculture to explain factual position with regard to scandals in news papers against performance of Chairman PARC regarding extension in tenure, recruitments and import of seeds etc. In this regard a meeting will be held very soon.

Islamabad, August 25, 2010

Standing Committee on Information Technology & Telecommunications

STANDING COMMITTEE ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Islamabad, the 25th August, 2010: A meeting of the Standing Committee on Information Technology & Telecommunication was held today at 11:00 A.M. in Committee Room No. 02, first floor, Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairpersonship of Chaudhry Muhammad Barjees Tahir, MNA to discuss the following agenda:-

i) To discuss the performance of USF Fund;

ii) To discuss the performance of National ICT R&D Fund;

iii) Any other items with the permission of the Chair.

The Chairman inquired that during the period from December, 2006 to December, 2009 was the Governor of Punjab on the Board of Directors and did he attend the meeting while he was the Governor? The Executive side replied in yes. Replying to another question that on what date did he resign, the Ministry informed that he completed his tenure.

The Standing Committee constituted a Sub Committee under the convener ship of Mrs. Anusha Rehman Khan Advocate, MNA with Miss Marvi Memon, MNA and Sardar Talib Hasssan Nakai, MNA as its members, for following terms of reference; (i) To inquire whether a sitting Governor representing his company can obtain a contract.

(ii) All companies participated in fund contribution of USF.

(iii) Whether PTCL, who does not contribute towards USF, is given any subsidy.

(iv) Was any appointment made violating the rules? if yes, who is responsible?

Replying to the question of Mrs. Anusha Rehman Khan Advocate, MNA about the procedure of grant of scholarship, the Ministry informed that students with 60% score at least can apply with free registration, followed by establishment of training center, firstly for teachers and then for candidates. After qualifying the test students are supported to seek admission in the institution of their choice.

The Committee unanimously recommended to the Prime Minister that a capable Minister may be appointed / assigned for this Ministry.

Islamabad, August 24, 2010

Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat

STANDING COMMITTEE ON CABINET SECRETARIAT

Islamabad, the 24th August, 2010: A meeting of the Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat was held today at 2:30 P. M. in Committee Room No. 2, Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Dewan Ashiq Hussain Bokhari, MNA to discuss the following agenda:-

i. Briefing on the functions/performance and future planning of National Language Authority;

ii. Any other item with the permission of the Chair.

At the Start of the meeting a Dua was read for brother of MNA Mr. Perviaz Khan and flood victims.

Mr. Iftikhar Arif head of the Muqtadra Qaumi Zuban gave the presentation. He informed the Committee that the authority was established in 1979 with its headquarters located at Karachi and Dr. Ishtaiq Khan as its first head. It was shifted to Islamabad in 1983-84. Its Board of Governors consists of 10 members related to academia apart from Secretaries of some Ministries as expostfacto members.

He expressed that Urdu can be promoted along with other Pakistani languages and English as well. Therefore Broad of Governors also include scholars of others Pakistani languages, linguistic and regional representatives. He informed the Committee that Muqtadra has so far published 600 books. While briefing about organization, he informed the Committee that provincial offices were disbanded under rightsizing programme. Mr. Iftikhar Arif informed the Committee that out of budget of 4 crore Rupees major junk goes to non development expenditure like salaries etc, leaving a small portion for original work of Muqtadra.

Islamabad, August 17, 2010

Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture Meets

STANDING COMMITTEE ON FOOD & AGRICULTURE MEETS

Islamabad, August 17, 2010: Mr. Javed Iqbal Warraich, MNA/ Chairman Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture chaired a meeting on 17th August, 2010 at 11:00 am in Committee Room No.01, Parliament House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was as following:-

a. Re-discussion and briefing on the performance of Federal Zarai Taraqqiati Bank Limited in the light of meeting of the standing Committee on Food and Agriculture held on 12th July, 2010 in Parliament House, Islamabad.

b. Any other item with the permission of Chair

Mr. Nadeem Afzal Chan, Mr. Abdul Majeed Khan Khanan Khail, Rana Tanveer Hussain Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada, Syed Haider Ali Shah and Minister for Food and Agriculture attended the meeting.

The Committee expressed sorrow that floods driven by record-breaking rainfall have killed many people and homes have been destroyed. The floods have destroyed crops of cotton, rice, sugarcane and tobacco worth billions of rupees Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Baluchistan. The floods have caused a shortage of food items and the prices of fruits and vegetables have increased by 25 to 50 per cent.

Appealing for international help, the Committee said farmers immediately need loans, tractors, tube-wells, livestock, tents for shelter, food for survivors, water purification plants and medicines for cholera, malaria and other water-borne diseases.

The Committee expressed sorrow that President ZTBL and other concerned quarters have not attended the meeting of the Standing Committee. The Committee directed President to attend the meeting scheduled to be held on 27-08-2010 otherwise he will be Summoned as per National assembly’s Rules.

The Committee advised ZTBL to give more concentration for services on Kacha areas of Pakistan specially Baluchistan etc. The Committee expressed sorrow that in past ZTBL has not done remarkable work. It is doing only 100% commercial activity of loan distribution and recovery rather recovery is also not effective. There is no innovation work, research and design and development work by ZTBL. ZTBL should conduct surveys and studies close to the ground realities of farmers. The Committee criticized that Mobile Credit Officers of ZTBL are involved in corruption/bribery. The Committee advised to increase number of model villages in Pakistan and introduce modern techniques of agriculture. The Committee expressed sorrow that ZTBL have not provided loans with regard to High Efficiency Irrigation system. The Committee advised that flood affected loans should be wave off. ZTBL should announce clear policy with regard to grant of Insurance to the flood affected areas and implement as soon as possible.

With regard to rehabilitation of Agriculture Sector, badly affected during recent flood havoc, the Committee proposed the following recommendations:-

a. Maximum efforts may be made to restore agriculture potential devastated by the furious flood in/ along the River Indus, Chenab and Jehlum.

b. In order to achieve the above objectives, the farmers should be given loans from all financial institutions particularly ZTBL free of interest at least for 5-years.

c. After 5-years, the rate of interest may be the same as the World Bank charges from the Government of Pakistan on release of 900 Million dollars for agriculture sector.

d. Rehabilitation aids for restoration of agriculture network particularly should be thoroughly documented and provided to those who are real owner, tenants and peasantry of farms/ agriculture lands.

e. In order to restore the real potential of Livestock, all foreign aids for the development of Dairy may be diverted to the restoration of the Livestock in the flood affected areas.

f. For further planning, infrastructure constructed on water courses, water channels must be developed in accordance with the natural channels of water which are in fact millennium old along the Indus River.

g. In order to stop influx of heavy water to the Indus River from the Roth Kohi in the Koi-e-Suleman range, the projects prepared before partition by the British Government should be undertaken and infrastructure abandoned machineries lying rotten at different places in the Koi-e-Suleman range should be refurbished and small check dams be constructed which can store as much as 4-5 lacs Cusec of water

h. For sake of rehabilitation of the affected people the foreign national aids should be provided to real and deserving people through banking channels and thoroughly documentation of the aid.

i. Finally, the Provincial department of Irrigation and Food should work in liaison with the Parliamentarians for rehabilitation of all those who have been affected by the flood.

The Committee discussed in detail Benazir Credit Card and advised to finalize the all pros and cons, liberalize the farmers and introduce the scheme without further delay. The Committee expressed apprehension that perhaps the delay in introduction of scheme is due to corruption within ZTBL and dealers. The ZTBL should deal with iron hand who are making hindrance to launch this scheme.

Islamabad,August 6, 2010

Standing Committee on SAFRON Meets

STANDING COMMITTEE ON SAFRON MEETS

Islamabad, August 6, 2010: Mr. Sajid Hussain Turi, MNA/ Chairperson Standing Committee on SAFRON chaired a meeting on 06th August, 2010 at 10:00am in Committee Room of Ministry of States and Frontier Region Division (SAFRON), Pak-Secretariat, S-Block, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was as under.

i. Briefing on Law & order situation in Kurram with particular reference to the Blocked of Thall – Parachinar Road.

ii. Briefing on monitoring mechanism of donor agencies regarding initiating projects/schemes in FATA.

Engineer Muhammad Tariq Khattak, MNA, Mir Ahmadan Khan Bugti, MNA, Syed Asif Hasnain, MNA, Mr. Pervaiz Khan Advocate, MNA, Mr. Shaukatullah, MNA and Lt. Gen. (Retd) Abdul Qadir Baloch attended the meeting.

The Committee stated that maintenance of Law and order in Kurrum agency is a National issue and major solution of the problem is compensation and rehabilitation of displaced persons at their native places which is not done due to non- availability of funds to fulfill the obligations of Murree Accord which was signed in Nov 2008 by all ethnic sectarian groups. The Committee reiterated that necessary funds should be provided to rehabilitate victims as soon as possible. The sanctity of Murree Accord should be maintained. The Committee expressed sorrow that from 1934 to 1961, in 21 years, no Sunni-Shia riots was occurred. In past, it was political Agent who can settle the issue with the help of Malik and Mashr etc, but now unfortunately Governor/ Chief Minister and Prime Minister have indulged in the issues. The solution lies on tradition, customs and values of Malik and Mashrs. The Committee said that people of Kurram Agency are fade up because of riots and they want to settle matter through Murree Accord. The Committee appreciated that Hangu, Auragzai and Kurram remained peaceful during this Muharram.

The Committee advised SAFRON that factor of Tabliban in Kurram agency should be taken seriously and a detailed report should be submitted in the next meeting. SAFRON Division should chalk out a working plan to neutralize this issue. The Committee expressed sorrow that peace is not maintained due to malpractice and corruption in utilization of funds in the area and non-implementation of writ of the Government in letter and spirit. The black ships either in administration, Police/FC or any where should be identified and sorted out with iron hands as well as with full political will. The strict vigilance and monitoring is required in the roads and area irrespective of ethnic sectarian/political and religious affiliation.

The Committee criticized that Political agents are granting permits for smuggling no action is taken. The Committee enquired why FC/Law enforcing agencies not stop the smuggling. The Committee noted that petrol and Food items should be allowed to pass according to requirement and capacity/ demand of local people. For example if a petrol-pump in Kurram agency is keeping the capacity of fuel of three tanks why it is allowed to pass 15 tanks. This fuel is smuggled to the miscreants and terrorist.

The Committee appealed religious Ulemas, Maliks, Mashrs and Media to play their role to maintain peace in letter and spirit irrespective of all kind of barriers. The Committee appealed Governor/ Prime Minister/ Government of Pakistan to extend full cooperation to bring peace in the area by providing funds in connection with Murree Accord, deployment of more forces, establishment and completion of under construction check posts, stoppage of smuggling, provision of latest security equipments, special night vision devices and censors to sectarian forces. The Committee recommended to SAFRON to examine the proposal of conducting joint patrolling in the area regularly in the day time and enforcing curfew in the night time and furnish report.

The Committee members agreed to visit the area and held meetings with notables, local leaders, elders etc. as soon as possible. In this regard the Committee will also meet with Prime Minister.

The Committee recommended the Commissioner Kohat to not disturb unnecessarily movement of conveys/transportation carrying daily use items and held regular meetings and Jirga in Sadda and Parachinar to reduce the tension and bring peace.

With regard to briefing on monitoring mechanism of donor agencies regarding initiating projects/schemes in FATA, the Committee advised SAFRON/DG projects FATA to develop a detailed working paper and strategy /sustainable development program for FATA for next 10-15 years in connection with donation/ funding and submit report to the Standing Committee in the next meeting. The Committee unanimously recommended that development work should be started in those areas which are now opened from security point of view. The Committee felt that there is earnest need to utilize development funds in Aurakzai and Lower Kurrum, which are now opened. The Committee advised SAFRON/DG projects FATA that Parliamentarian/ MNAs of the concerned area should be informed regularly about development work and details about project, allocation of funds and utilization report should be provided to the members of the Standing Committee. The concerned MNAs of the area should be involved in the process of development work wheter it is from foreign/ International donors or local donors. The Committee advised to Commissioner Kohat and DG Projects FATA to make full cooperation with each other.

Islamabad, August 5, 2010

Standing Committee on Human Rights Meets

STANDING COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS MEETS

Mr. Riaz Fatyana, MNA/ Chairperson Standing Committee on Human Rights chaired a meeting on 05th August, 2010 at 02:00pm in the Committee Room No. 07, Parliamentary House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was “Women and Child Rights”.

The Mrs. Shakeela Khanam Rasheed, MNA, Mrs. Yasmeen Rehman, MNA, Mr. Jawad Hussain, MNA and Ms. Frahnaz Isphani, MNA attended the meeting.

The Committee stated that there is earnest need for financial, social, political and legal empowerment of women and appealed Civil Society, NGOs and Media to play their role. The Committee made recommendations which are briefly stated as below:-

a) All Political Parties should observe 10% quota for participation of women in general elections of National Assembly, Provincial Assembly and Senate. Appealed all Political Parties to discontinue formation of “women wings” in their offices and keep it open and give chance to become 25% of women as office bearers.

b) Make necessary amendments in rules and reserve two seats for women of FATA in National Assembly and Senate.

c) With regard to economic rights of women, share in property, clauses in Nika-Nama and divorce etc, a Sub-Committee was constituted under convener ship of Ms. Farhanaz Isphani. Mrs. Attiya Inayatullah, Mrs. Sumaira Yasir Rashid and Mrs. Kishwar Zehra will be members. The Committee will submit report within two months.

d) The reserved quota of 10% for women in recruitments should be observed in letter and spirit.

e) Provision of better public transport system for women employment in all cities.

f) Effective Legislation for safety of domestic/working women and sexual harassment should be made and implemented in letter and spirit.

g) The issues of honour killing should be taken up seriously by concerned departments.

h) Provincial Governments, Ministry of Interior, Civil Society, Media and Ulemas should held special programs to curb the domestic violations, abuses and beatings to women.

i) Better Maternity conditions for women and establishment of at-least one Maternity Centre at Union Council level.

j) Arrangements for adult education and combined education at primary level. NAVTEC/ NEVTA to enhance at least 25% seats of women and held special technical/vocational programs for women/girls and children.

k) Ministry of Finance should give Micro Finance loans to rural/ deprived women.

l) Ministry of local Government and Planning Division should establish Women Toilets at grass root level.

m) A woman completes 20% of tenure of imprisonment in Jail should be released on payroll.

n) Establishment of Women Centers at Town level to attend complaints, bring awareness, legal protection and for recreational activities etc.

o) Capacity building and awareness of Laws enforcing agencies about recent legislations/Bills in connection with Women and Child rights.

p) Establishment of residential accommodations/ hostels for working women in Islamabad as well as other cities of Pakistan.

q) Ministry of Interior to respond quickly and effectively to the complaints reported by Crisis Centers /Ministry of Women Development in connection with gender crimes.

r) Ministry of Social Welfare and Special Education may establish introductory literature of 09 Bills relating to child rights and distribute the same to SHOs/ Police Department.

s) The National Commission on the Rights of Children Bill, 2009, The Criminal Law Amendment Bill, 2009, Child Rights, Bill 2009, The Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Bill, 2010 and children Marriage Act, 1929 should be finalised on priority basis by National Assembly and Senate.

t) Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Social Welfare and Special Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take up the matter of use of minor children in Camel riding at local level with concerned quarters as well as with Gulf countries.

u) Ministry of Housing and Works should construct sports/ recreational facilities for children.

v) Make necessary legislation for provision of concession in fare to children for traveling.

w) Establishment of Child Centers and Orphans Homes at Tehsil/ District level.

x) Ministry of Social Welfare and Special Education, Civil Society Organization, Media, Student Organizations, Labour and Political parties should launch awareness program for “adopt a child movement”.

y) Due to Nutrition issues/complications the health of Pakistan child is deteriorating therefore necessary steps should be taken. Yearly medical examination of children should be mandatory in school etc.

z) Ministry of Women Development and Ministry of Social Welfare and Special Education to make further legislations for protection of children.

aa) It should be mandatory for domestic child below the age of 14 years to attend the school.

bb) Ministry of Labour & Manpower should include the child domestic work as hazardous occupation in the schedule of Employment of children Act 1991.

Islamabad, August 4, 2010

Standing Committee on Human Rights Meets

STANDING COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS MEETS

Islamabad, August 4, 2010: Mr. Riaz Fatyana, MNA/ Chairperson “Standing Committee on Human Rights chaired a meeting on 04th August, 2010 at 02:00pm in the Committee room No. 07, Parliamentary House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was “Jail Reforms”.

The Mrs. Shakeela Khanam Rasheed, MNA, Dr. Araish Kumar, MNA, Dr. Sumaira Yasir Rashid, MNA, Khwaja Sheraz Mehmood, MNA and Ms. Frahnaz Isphani, MNA attended the meeting.

The Committee made amendments in the Prisons Act, 1984 and proposed the following recommendations:-

a) On arrival of prisoners, the medical check up should be carried within 24 hours. A kit containing instructions for rights and duties, basic necessities and facilities of daily life, legal aid etc should be provided to prisoners in Jail. Computerized Medical record and health card should be issued to prisoners. Jail identity card should be provided which should contain history and record of remissions. The card should be updated after six months. Computerized finger prints and central data bank of every prisoner should be maintained in jails which should be linked with NADRA, Police Department etc.
b) Basic facilities of toilets, sewerage system, geyser, clean drinking water plant, Utility Stores, Barber shop, laundry shop, post office, telephone booth, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, TV/cable should be established in all jails.
c) Meeting points/ sheds should be made according to number/capacity of visitors as numbers of visitors have increased. The duration of meeting between visitors and inmates should be one hour.
d) The mental prisoners should be transferred to Mental Hospitals.
e) Every prisoner should be produced before the Judge on hearing date instead of sitting in police van or provision of new date of hearing by Reader of the Judge.
f) There should be facility of ambulance, X-ray machine, ultrasound and lab. At least one doctor for 500 inmates should be available. Jail Departments should make its own recruitment of medical/paramedical staff. The family of sick inmates should be informed regularly.
g) Prison van/ transportation should be improved.
h) The prisoners who complete satisfactorily 1/3 of duration of imprisonment should be sent on pay role. i) All discriminations in award of remission should be abolished.
j) To bring change in the mind set of prisoners and Jail staff Seminars and trainings should be held regularly. k) Open space for prisoners which should be arranged.
l) Speedy justice should be provided to the prisoners.
m) The adult literacy should be arranged for the prisoners in the Jails.
n) The sentence of 25-years of imprisonment in Pakistan should be rationalized as per International norms and practices. The malpractices in jails should be removed.
o) The family suits of two rooms with kitchen and bathroom should be constructed within premises of all jails.

Islamabad, August 3, 2010

Standing Committee on Human Rights Meets

STANDING COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS MEETS

Islamabad, August 3, 2010: Mr. Riaz Fatyana, MNA/Chairperson “Standing Committee on Human Rights chaired a meeting on 03rd August, 2010 at 02:00pm in the Committee room No. 07, Parliamentary House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was “National Commission on Human Rights Act, 2008”.

2. The Mrs. Shakeela Khanam Rasheed, MNA, Dr. Araish Kumar, MNA, Dr. Sumaira Yasir Rashid, MNA, Khwaja Sheraz Mehmood, MNA and Ms. Frahnaz Isphani, MNA attended the meeting.

3. The Committee offered Fateha for health and prosperity of Makhdoom Muhammad Javed Hashmi. Later the Committee offered Fateha and condolence for the death of 152 persons killed in Plan crash at Islamabad, target killing of Syed Raza Haider, MPA, Sindh Assembly and other 30-40 persons in Karachi and deaths due to floods in the country. The Committee condemned the incident of Plan crash and appealed Government of Pakistan that land and take off planes in all airports of Pakistan should be automatic /computerized. The Committee condemned target killing in Karachi and proposed that new scientific methods, cameras etc and security equipment should be installed instead of deputing uniform civil armed persons, which create harassment in the public. The Committee expressed concern on hoarding of arms/ammunition in the country and appealed to revise the process of issuance of license etc.

4. The Committee considered National Commission on Human Rights Bill, 2008. The Committee made discussion about potential changes to the bill. After a detailed discussion the Committee approved the National Commission on Human Rights Bill, 2008 with certain amendments. However, Ministry of Human Rights will submit final vetted Bill by Ministry of Law to all members of the Committee. The National Commission on Human Rights will be administratively and financially fully autonomous. The Chairman will be serving or retired Judge of Supreme Court or having vast experience of Human Rights. The Committee can summon any public or private department and investigate the matter. The Commission would be empowered to issue directions to the Government of Pakistan. The duration of Commission will be four years. The Commission will submit annual report to the Government of Pakistan, which will lay-down report before the Parliament. . The Committee hoped the commission will become a voice in the defense and promotion of human rights in Pakistan.

5. The Committee approved “Human Rights Women in Distress and Detention Fund Act 1996. The Words and comma “law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs” was subsituted by the Human Rights”.

Islamabad, July 20, 2010

Monitoring Committee on Human Rights on Adulterated Food Meets

MONITORING COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS ON ADULTERATED FOOD MEETS

Islamabad, the 20th July, 2010: Ms. Fauzia Habib, MNA/ Chairperson “Monitoring Committee of Human Rights on adulterated food” chaired a meeting on 20th July, 2010 at 11:00 am in the Committee room of WPC, Parliamentary House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was to finalize the future guidelines and strategy for the meeting to curb the adulteration in the country.

Mr. Jawad Hussain, MNA and Mrs. Raheela Baloch, MNA attended the meeting.

The Monitoring Committee expressed sorrow that people of the Pakistan could not dream of having pure and hygienic water, milk and milk products, meat and beef etc. as they are most adulterated items. Adulteration and contamination in edibles especially beverages, bottled water, cooking oil/ghee, spices, food colour, tea, sweeteners like sugar, sweetmeats and bakery products, milk and milk products and fruit and vegetable products are constant threat to the health. The milk and water is the most adulterated item. This is rampant despite routine checking by the relevant authorities. There is no city locality is considered free of presence and open sale of such edibles. The people are suffering from serious health threats, which are arising with the increasing adulteration in food items. Food adulteration is resulting in fatal diseases like cancer, heart, liver and stomach. The Committee noticed that majority of the adulterated products are sold at small shops, by roadside vendors and small restaurants and hotels because of their high profit margin. Adulterators are not scared of any legal or punitive action due to the various loopholes in the existing laws. Majority of adulterators arrested or challan for the offence easily get bails from courts.

The Committee finalized the future guidelines of the meeting and pledged to stop the adulteration in the country. The Committee decided to hold meeting on 12th August 2010 at 2:00 pm in the Committee room of National Assembly in which representatives of Provinces and other Ministries will participate. The meeting will be held to discuss with the Provinces and relevant Ministries about harmonization of standards, enforcement mechanisms and public awareness with particular reference to pure food laws prevailing in the Federation and Provinces. The Chairperson appealed Provinces, Media and all forums to help to curb the adulteration in the country.

Islamabad, July 12, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Food and Agriculture Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON FOOD AND AGRICULTURE MEETS

Mr. Javed Iqbal Warraich, MNA/ Chairman Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture chaired a meeting on 12th July, 2010 at 11:00 am in Committee Room No.07, Parliament House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was as following:-

2. The Members of Standing Committee Syed Aamir Ali Shah, Ch. Iftikhar Nazir, Mr. Nadeem Afzal Chan, Mr. Abdul Majeed Khan Khanan Khail, Muhammad Arshad Khan Laghari, Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada, Syed Haider Ali Shah and Mir Changez Khan Jamali attended the meeting.

3. The Committee expressed dissatisfaction on the briefing of Zari Tarqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL). The Committee showed sorrow that Benazir Credit Card and Benazir Tractor scheme of Rs. 72.00 billion to provide easy credit facility to 3.8 million farmers was announced in 2009 by ZTBL. Practically, no work has been done. Previously ZTBL Manager can approve the grant of Tractor loan to farmers but now approval is solicited from Executive Director ZTBL. The Committee advised ZTBL to furnish province wise disbursement of loans and recovery position, not having details about new/ old loans, details of write off loans since 1985 and Mega projects. The Committee proposed to review Insurance policy for farmers. The Committee advised to furnished details of the breakup of income from Insurance, amount paid to Insurance company and insurance claim paid to the farmers. The Committee stated that the farmers are not happy by Insurance policy.

4. The Committee advised to streamline and simplify revolving loan procedure. Loan should be accessible to farmer. The list of model village should be provided to the members of the Committee. The Committee will held separate meeting on High Efficiency Irrigation System, Crop maximization program, increase in crop yield, energy projects, hybrid seed, embryo transplant technology and wing energy and wind monitor its viability.

5. Regarding “Shifting of staff of PARC labs from Karachi to Interior Sindh, the Convener of the Sub-Committee informed that as PARC has not supplied requisited information, therefore so far meeting could not be held. The Committee expressed sorrow for delay by PARC to furnish the information. The Ministry of Food & Agriculture directed Chairman PARC to respond within one week after issuance of instruction by Ministry of Food & Agriculture/ Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture.

6. The Committee expressed dissatisfaction on the current action of Chairman PARC against Scientist of Karachi and recalled that during visit of 3-4th February, 2010 at Karachi, Chairman PARC appreciated the work of labs and now he is criticizing them. The Committee advised Ministry of Food & Agriculture to investigate the matter and furnish the details as soon as possible to the Committee.

Islamabad, July 8, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Education Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION MEETS

A meeting of the Standing Committee on Education was held on 8th July, 2010 at 11:00 am in Committee Room of Higher Education Commission (HEC) Sector H-9, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Mr. Ch. Abid Sher Ali. The agenda was as below:-

2. Justice (R) Fakhar un Nisa Khokhar, Miss Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Mrs, Shakeela Khanam Rashid, Mr.s Shamshad Sattar Bachani, Rana Afzaal Hussain, Miss Tasneem Siddiqui, Mrs. Farzana Mushtaq Ghani, Mr. Mehboob Ullah Jan and Dr. Nadeem Ehsan attended the meeting.

3. The agenda of the meeting was as below:-

i) Replies/reports by the National University of Modern Languages (NUML), Islamabad about the issues/irregularities of the University discussed during the last meeting of the Committee on 25th May, 2010.

ii) Replies/Reports by the Federal Directorate of Education, Islamabad about the issues/irregularities discussed during the last meeting of the Committee on 24th May, 2010 iii) Latest status/report about verification of degrees of the Parliamentarians by the Higher Education Commission, Islamabad.

4. With regard to mentioning the name of the President of Pakistan as Chairman BOG and removing the name of Chief of Army Staff as Chairman BOG, the Rector NUML informed that existing BOG has been requested for the same. The Committee expressed concern that Rector NUML was asked on 25-05-2010 to follow the rules in letter and spirit but so far it is not implemented. The Committee advised Rector NUML to observe the rules without further delay and the name of Chief of Army Staff as Chairman BOG should be removed and compliance report be forwarded within 10 days. 5. The Committee shown dissatisfaction on the income/ expenditure of NUML for the year 2009-2010 especially on deficit amount of Rs. 128,425,341 and desired to provide the breakup from beginning of the Institute of Modern Languages till its conversion of University.

6. The Committee also asked the Rector to furnish the details of all its regional campus/ offices, their strength including the salary etc given to the employees, location and working etc. The meeting was deferred with the direction to prepare all the details and furnish the same in a meeting to be convened in NUML in near future.

7. With regard to Replies/Reports by the Federal Directorate of Education, Islamabad about the issues/irregularities discussed during the last meeting of the Committee on 24th May, 2010, DG, FDE explained the position. The Committee expressed concerned on the appointment of 451 teachers against the advertised posts of 280 teachers resulted into the recruitment of 175 excess appointment which is sheer violation of rules. The Committee unanimously recommended undoing the whole procedure. The Committee desired to investigate the matter and fix the responsibility. The Committee advised DG Audit to carry special audit and bring the matter before PAC as per procedure. It was decided that Chairman Standing Committee on Education will write a letter to PM on irregularities in FDE/ Ministry of Education. The Committee advised to DG FDE/ Ministry of Education to enquire into the matter of selling of property of a school in UAE to brother of Ex-Foreign Secretary.

8. With regard to Latest status/report about verification of degrees of the Parliamentarians by the Higher Education Commission, Islamabad, it was informed that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) provided 1095 copies of degrees/certificates to HEC. 161 copies of degrees/certificates were returned back to ECP being illegible/ irrelevant.. The process of verification of 934 degrees has been initiated by the HEC. Foreign degrees of 36 Parliamentarians have been mailed to concerned universities. 21 Asnaads have been sent to concern Deeni Madressahs for verification. 877 copies of degrees of Parliamentarians have been sent to 36 concerned universities for verification. The concerned Universities were asked to submit report latest by 13-07-2010.

9. The Committee asked from K M Dilshad, Ex-Secretary, Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) as to why not he initiated the action during his tenure against the fake degrees. Mr. K M Dilshad explained the procedure on the issue. The Committee advised Secretary ECP to provide the list of R.O who accepted the fake degrees and also initiate the disciplinary action against them. The Committee urged HEC to check Universities/ Educational institutions who issued the fake degrees. The Committee also stressed that this process should also be extended to other different institutes/ offices of the society.

Islamabad, July 7, 2010

WPC Condemns Torching of a Women by her Husband in Sargodha: Calls for Strict Legal Action

WPC CONDEMNS TORCHING OF A WOMEN BY HER HUSBAND IN SARGODHA: CALLS FOR STRICT LEGAL ACTION

Islamabad July 7, 2010: The Women's Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) has strongly condemned the heinous incident of torching a woman by her husband in Sargodha for delivering a baby girl. The Working council of Women Parliamentary Caucus met in Parliament House, this morning.

The Caucus has termed it a cold bloodied murder and a reflection of ignorant and shameful mind set, prevalent in the society. While urging for an exemplary punishment for the culprit and his accomplices, the WPC has also called on all concerned to show zero tolerance towards such inhuman practices. It also reminded that neither any religion nor the constitution of Pakistan allows such behavior.

The Working Council felt that inhumane behavior towards women and denial of opportunities to them was the biggest obstacle for the progress of the womenfolk. The Women MPs stressed for initiation of necessary measures to protect and ensure equal opportunities to women so that they could work for the progress and prosperity of the country. They also called for strict implementation of laws so that no one dares to commit heinous crimes against women.

The Working Council also discussed the future plan of the Women Parliamentary Caucus. It was decided that Women MPs should visit and monitor the performance of women crisis centers, industrial homes and other welfare projects for women in their respective constituencies and suggest measures for their improvement.

The Working Council also met the representatives of German Organization, Heinrich Boll Stiftung and discussed the future cooperation between the Women Caucus and the Heinrich Boll Stiftung regarding women empowerment projects. It was agreed in principle that the German Organization would extend maximum possible support to Women Caucus in pursuance of its programs.

The meeting was attended by all the Members of the Working council.

Islamabad, June 9, 2010

A Special Committee on (NAECHS) Meets

A SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON (NAECHS) MEETS

Islamabad June 9, 2010: Special Committee of the National Assembly Standing Committee on House and Library on National Assembly Employees Cooperative Housing Society (NAECHS) met under the Convener ship of Shiekh Waqas Akram, MNA in Parliament House today. Deputy Speaker National Assembly, Faisal Karim Kundi attended the meeting on special invitation. Other members of the committee who attended the meeting were MNAs Anjum Aqeel Khan, Noor Alam Khan and Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq.

The committee discussed reported embezzlement and mismanagement in the accounts, expenditures on purchase of land and development by the previous office bearers and administrators of the (NAECHS) Society. The committee expressed its concern on award of the development contract without fulfilling the procedural requirements. District Administration Islamabad apprised the committee that previous administration of the society awarded a development contract without any NOC of CDA and any advertisement in newspapers. It also informed that pervious administration of the Society has made a payment of Rs. 9 Crore to the contractor and Rs. 69 lac to its consultant. The Committee also informed that only 230 kanals of land was in possession of the NAECHS in compact block shape while the minimum requirement for issuance of NOC by the CDA is 450 kanals.

The committee will visit the location of the Society to examine the factual position of the land in possession of the Society and development work carried out by the contractor tomorrow. The committee also decided to invite Member (Planning) CDA to brief the committee that whether the CDA has issued the NOC for development work. or the administration of the Society started the development without the NOC. It also decided to invite Member (Engineering) CDA to assess the cost of development work carried out by the contractor in the next meeting. The Committee directed the Circle Registrar (ICT) to provide the name of the authority who has ordered to defreeze the bank accounts of the Society despite the direction of Senate Standing Committee.

Deputy Speaker National Assembly asked the committee to hold its meeting regularly so that the process of investigation in the affairs of the society would be completed earlier. He also asked the committee to consider other options for activation the society and the employees who had made full payment could be allotted plots. He assured the committee of his full cooperation in this regard.

Islamabad, May 25, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Education Meets

N.A STANDING COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION MEETS

A meeting of the Standing Committee on Education was held on 25th May, 2010 at 10:00 am in Committee Room of Heigher Education Commission, H-8, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Ch. Abid Sher Ali. The agenda was as below:-

i. Verification of educational degrees of the Parliamentarians by HEC.
ii. Report of the Sub-Committee constituted to consider Compulsory School Attendance Bill, 2008.
iii. Report of the Sub-Committee constituted to consider the Islamabad Capital Territory Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Promotion) Ordinance, 2007 (No. LV of 2007).
iv. Report of the Sub-Committee constituted to probe in to the matter of:

a. Termination of Services of Ms. Nazia Rafiq, Ex-Programme Manager, Project Management Unit, CIDA Debt Swap Project for Education, Federal Project Management Unit under Policy & Planning Wing, Ministry of Education, Islamabad and

b. Extension/ Regularization of services of the SEP-II Officers, N.I.S.T.E. Ministry of Education, Islamabad.
v. Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Bill, 2010.
vi. Discussion on different issues/ irregularities of Federal Directorate of Education, Islamabad.
2. Justice (R) Fakhar un Nisa Khokhar, Miss Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Mrs, Shakeela Khanam Rashid, Mrs. Shamshad Sattar Bachani, Rana Afzaal Hussain, Miss Tasneem Siddiqui, Mrs. Farzana Mushtaq Ghani, Mr. Mehboob Ullah Jan, Dr. Nadeem Ehsan, Mrs. Rubina Saadat Qaim Khani, Mrs. Mamoona Hashmi and Begum Nuzhat Sadiq attended the meeting.

3. The Committee expressed serious concern on Budget on Education that Rs. 22.5 billion were allocated in the Budget for the current year whereas so far Rs. 10.25 billion have been released. Due to this all ongoing projects, scholarships and construction work relating to education is heldup. It was noticed that Pakistan will likely to become lowest in using Education Budget i.e 1.3% of GDP whereas it should be at least 7% of GDP. The Committee also expressed concern for allocation of Next Year budget. In view of this serious condition, it was decided that Ch. Abid Sher Ali, Justice (R) Fakhar un Nisa Khokhar, Begum Nuzhat Sadiq, Chairman HEC and ED, HEC will meet very soon Prime Minister to release the existing budget and allocate at least 7% of GDP for next financial year.

4. Regarding verification of educational degrees of Parliamentarians by HEC, the Committee noted that 70 cases of claim of fake degrees are under investigation out of which 24 cases are still under investigation and 46 cases have been decided. The record of 873 degrees out 1170 was handed over to HEC with the request to investigate the fake degrees and furnish comprehensive report to the Committee.

5. With regard to Briefing by National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad the Committee expressed concern for irregular appointments of 20 lecturers in NUML. The recruitments were made without advertisements. The Committee advised to revisit the all irregularities and furnish comprehensive record/ report. Regarding Board of Governors in NUML, the Committee advised to bring change/amendment in record and replace Chancellor as President and Pro-Chancellor as Minister for Education. Referring to the initial audit report for irregularity of more than Rs. 5-Crore, the Committee advised HEC to call Audit General/ DG Federal Audit to bring all record and explain factual position before the forthcoming meeting of the Standing Committee. The Committee shown dissatisfaction on rental projects in Islamabad and desired to work on permanent and ownership basis. Referring to incident of beating to Mr. Tahir Naeem Malik, Lecturar, NUML, the Committee condemned the incident. The Committee expressed sympathy with Mr.Malik.

6. Referring to the report of firing between students of Islamia University Bhawalpur and other issues, the Committee took serious notice for violence by 47 student activists, torture to faculty staff and ineffectiveness of the Police. The Committee decided to refer the matter to the Chief Minister, Punjab to take action against activists and concerned police officials for not arresting the culprits.

7. With regard to irregularities in Agriculture University Faisalabad, the Committee advised VC to take notice on application of Mr. Tahir Rasheed for 22 illegal recruitments and submit comprehensive report to the Committee.

Islamabad, May 24, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Education Meets

N.A STANDING COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION MEETS

A meeting of the Standing Committee on Education was held on 24th May, 2010 at 10:00 am in Committee Room of Ministry of Education, D-Block Pak-Secretariat, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Ch. Abid Sher Ali. The agenda was as below:-

i) Report of the Sub-Committee constituted to consider compulsory School Attendance Bill, 2008.
ii) Report of the Sub-Committee constituted to consider the Islamabad Capital Territory Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Promotion) Ordinance, 2007 (No. LV of 2007)
iii) Report of the Sub-Committee constituted to probe into the matters of:
a. Termination of services of Ms. Nazia Rafiq, Ex-Programme Manager, Project Management Unit, CIDA Debt Swap Project for Education, Federal Project Management Unit under Policy and Planning Wing, Ministry of Education, Islamabad; and
b. Extension/ Regularization of services of the SEP-II Officers, N.I.S.T.E. Ministry of Education, Islamabad. iv) Prohibition of corporal punishment Bill, 2010.
v) Discussion on different issues/ irregularities of Federal Directorate of Education, Islamabad.
2. Justice (R) Fakhar un Nisa Khokhar, Miss Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Mrs, Shakeela Khanam Rashid, Mr.s Shamshad Sattar Bachani, Rana Afzaal Hussain, Miss Tasneem Siddiqui, Mrs. Farzana Mushtaq Ghani, Mr. Mehboob Ullah Jan and Dr. Nadeem Ehsan attended the meeting.

3. The Committee directed Ministry of Education to examine Compulsory School Attendance Bill of four Provinces and furnish full details to the Committee in the next meeting. The Committee desired to provide full data about education position of Baluchistan. The Committee expressed sorrow that Pakistan has agreed to Million Developmental Goals (MDGs) that up to 2015 every child will be in school whereas practically it seems very difficult. Ministry of Education should do all necessary work to achievement this goal.

4. Regarding report of the Sub-Committee constituted to consider the Islamabad Capital Territory Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Promotion) Ordinance, 2007 (No. LV of 2007), the Committee approved the minutes/ recommendations of Sub-Committee dated 08-02-2010 and 18-02-2010. However, the Committee interalia made following observations:-

a. The Day Care schools should be registered by PIERA.
b. With regard to salary of teachers of private Educationl Institutions, the Committee expressed sorrow that it should be ensured that adequate amount of salary is paid to them. The Capital Territory Private Educational Institutions and Regulatory Promotion Bill, 2007 was deferred till the next meeting.
c. There should be uniform syllabus in case of A/O level and Government schools/ colleges. The standard of Government school in Islamabad particularly should be upgraded so that students should not go to private schools and pay heavy fees etc. The Government educational Institutions in Islamabad should be made as model.

5. A full briefing will be given by Ministry of Education on Madrasa Education. Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Religious Affairs will also participate in the meeting. The Committee recommended that Madrasa Education should be handled by Ministry of Education.

6. The Committee urged Ministry of Education to call a conference for discussion to upgrade the standard of education.

7. Regarding Prohibition of Corporal punishment Bill, 2010, the Committee constituted the following Sub-Committee:-
a. Justice (R) Fakhar un Nisa Khokhar – Convener.
b. Mrs. Shakeela Khanam Rasheed - Member.
c. Ms. Tasneem Siddiqui - Member.

8. Regarding Federal Directorate of Education (FDE), Islamabad, and the Committee noticed following irregularities made by Ex DG, FDE:¬¬-

a. There are 05-06 authorized posts of Directors whereas FDE has appointed 07-08 Directors. No charge of Director should be given to officer in BS- 18 as many BS-19 officers are available to work. All those Deputy Directors having charge of BS-19 should be reverted and compliance report should be furnished to the Standing Committee within one month.
b. The record of all Irregular recruitments should be provided to Secretary/ Minister for Education as well as Standing Committee on Education.
c. One teacher namely Mrs. Amara Sahar was supposed to recruit in BS-14 but her appointment letter was issued in BS-09 and Ministry/FDE has not yet given her joining report. The DG FDE will look into the matter and furnish report within 30-days to the Committee.
d. DG, FDE will provide all record of promotions made within two years to the Standing Committee.
e. The Committee also expressed sorrow for following irregularities:-
i. The excess recruitments of teaching staff in MTT and TUGT cadre.
ii. Unauthorized regularization of English teacher.
iii. In criteria for appointment of teachers, the marks in case of qualification are 20 whereas the marks in case of interview are 30 which are negative sign and should be retaionalised.
iv. Ch. Sadiq Ali, Assistant Professor (BS-19) was suspended and reappointed without Inquiry and posted as Director Model Colleges.
v. Mrs. Farzana Gondal of BS-18 posted as Director in BS-19. There are many similar cases.

Islamabad, May 20, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Communications Meets

N.A STANDING COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS MEETS

Islamabad, May 20, 2010: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Communications has decided to move Privilege Motion against Chairman, National Highway Authority (NHA) on providing wrong information regarding the preparation of PC-I of new 4-lane fenced (Lahore-Nankana Sahib) Expressway. This action was decided by the Committee in a meeting held today on 20th May, 2010 in Ministry of Communications, Islamabad. Mr.Saeed Ahmed Zafar, Chairman, National Assembly Standing Committee on Communications presided over the meeting. Mr. Imtiaz Safdar Warraich, Minister of State for Communications was also present in the meeting.

While discussing the issue of Construction of new 4-lane fenced (Lahore-Nankana Sahib) Expressway, the Secretary M/o Communications informed the Committee that the Ministry had not received PC-I of Lahore-Nankana Sahib Expressway as being claimed by Chairman NHA. The Committee expressed its utter dismay over the performance of NHA in terms of complying the directions given by the Committee in its last meetings and warned that the Committee would not tolerate NHA’s flouted attitude, in future

The Committee appreciated the performance of Construction Technology Training Institute (CTTI) and suggested that such institutes should be expanded to all over the country to create skilled workforce. Earlier, in his briefing, Director (CTTI) apprised the Committee that the Institute was initially established in 1986 in Islamabad with the Support of Government of Japan through JICA. Its aim is to provide trained operators and skilled mechanics to the agencies concerned with construction works so that construction machinery is preserved. He further apprised that the Institute with the collaboration of KOICA and JICA is going to introduce courses for Internally Displaced Persons in Malakand Division.

The meeting was attended by Mir Dost Muhammad Mazari, Capt. (Retd.) Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Khural, Capt. (Retd.) Muhammad Safdar, Abdul Majeed Khan Khanan Khail, Dr. Araish Kumar, Dr. Darshan, Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi, Mr. Ghous Bux Khan Mahar, Sheikh Salahuddin, Mr. Mohammad Kamran Khan, MNAs and Senior Officers of the Ministry of Communications, PEMRA and National Highways & Motorway Police.

Islamabad, May 17, 2010

NA Standind Committee on States and Frontier Regions Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON STATES AND FRONTIER REGIONS MEETS

Islamabad May 17, 2010, The Standing Committee on States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) urged for maintaining transparency and strict monitoring of various development projects funded by the Foreign Donor Agencies in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). The Committee met under the Chairmanship of Mr. Pervaiz Khan Advocate, MNA today in the Committee room of the Ministry of States and Frontier Regions wherein representatives of Ministries of SAFRON, Economic Affairs Divisions, Foreign Affairs and FATA Secretariat gave comprehensive briefings on the donors assisted projects in FATA.

The Committee observed that the Foreign Funds/Aids are not being properly utilized and recommended that all the Donor Agencies/Organizations may be persuaded to spend their funds through Government of Pakistan instead of directly executing it through Private Organizations/NGOs as the local representatives are not being consulted before initiating any project in their constituencies. The Committee recommended that the local public representatives may be taken into confidence before identification or initiating any project in their constituencies. The Committee also asked for the agency-wise detail of the completed, ongoing and future projects in FATA. The Members raised their grievances regarding poor health and educational facilities in the area and suggested that the doctors belonging to FATA may be posted in their respective agencies and special incentives may be offered to improve the health facilities in FATA. The Committee after thorough discussion constituted a four Members Sub-Committee headed by Mr. Noor Alam Khan, MNA to discuss and seek ways and means for a separate service cadre for FATA and to look into its political and constitutional implications. While discussing the problems of IDPs, the Committee recommended that IDPs of FATA may be treated at par with other IDPs of the Province.

The meeting was attended by Mrs. Asma Arbab Alamgir, Advisor to PM on SAFRON and MNAs Mr. Shaukatullah, Syed Asif Hasnain, Mr. Noor Alam Khan, Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi, Mir Ahmadan Khan Bugti, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhary, Jawad Hussain. Senior Officers from the Ministries of SAFRON, Economic Affairs Division, Foreign Affairs and FATA Secretariat were also present in the meeting.

Islamabad, May 10, 2010

NA Standind Committee on Food & Agriculture Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON FOOD & AGRICULTURE MEETS

Islamabad 10th March, 2010: Mr. Javed Iqbal Warraich, MNA/ Chairman Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture chaired a meeting on 10th March, 2010 at 3:00 pm in Committee Room No.02, Parliament House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was as following:-

i. Working and progress of the PASSCO.
ii. Consideration/ approval of minutes of the Sub-Committee of the Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture (Agriculture Pesticide Bill, 2009) held on 05th and 17th April, 2010 under Convener ship of Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada, MNA.
iii. Consideration/ approval of minutes of the Sub-Committee of the Standing Committee on Food & Agriculture (The Plant Breeder’s Right Bill, 2010.) held on 27th March, 2010 under Convener ship of Dr. Abdul Syed Haider Ali Shah, MNA.
iv. Any other item with the permission of chair.

1. Mir Munawar Ali Talpur, Ch. Iftikhar Nazir, Syed Javed Hussain, Mr. Muhammad Arshad Khan Laghari, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Sardar Bahadur Ahmed Khan Sihar, Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada, Syed Haider Ali Shah and Mir Changez Khan Jamali.

2. The Committee expressed concern for bad reputation of PASSCO in connection with purchase of wheat. The Committee expressed dissatisfaction that PASSCO is purchasing wheat from two tehsils in Sind and 15 Tehsil only in Punjab whereas in Baluchistan and rest of Provinces wheat is purchased by Food Department of Provincial Governments. The Committee criticized role of food Department of provinces. The Committee noticed that there is no place to store the wheat in Baluchistan and it is expected that wheat will be wasted. The Committee criticized that Growers are facing serious problem of nonavalability of Bardana. The Committee recommended to hold internal and external audit of Department of food and Department of Revenue of Provinces. The Committee alleged that non availability of loans from Banks is failure on the part of concerned officials of Government Departments. As the Southern Punjab is basket of wheat therefore Storage Centers and target of purchase of wheat should be increased. The Committee expressed sorrow that so for no mechanism is developed by Ministry of Food & Agriculture/ PASSCO to keep balance and make availability of wheat in the Country.

3. The Committee apprehended that due to financial problems and inadequate storage capacity of PASSCO, the country may again face serious crisis and remedial measures should be ensured and give full briefing on 19-20 May 2010 in the Committee room of Ministry of Food & Agriculture. Ministry of Finance, Planning Division and concerned Departments of Provinces will also be invited by Ministry of Food & Agriculture. The financial situation of PASSCO should be stabilized. The Committee recommended that allocation of Bardana should be revised in Pakistan with consultation of Federal Government and Provinces including Government of Baluchistan. The Committee desired to increase the role and allocation of Ministry of Food & Agriculture and PASSCO at least in one Tehsil of Pakistan on permanent basis. The Committee criticized to rationalize the incidental charges of PASSCO. The Committee directed Ministry of Food & Agriculture to unearth elements that hoard the wheat. A comprehensive National policy regarding procurement, prices, storage import, export and distribution of wheat should be established by Ministry of Food & Agriculture by inviting all stack holders and report should be submitted to the Committee. The Committee desired to establish “Wheat Board”. The Committee directed Ministry of Food & Agriculture/ PASSCO to immediately give relief to farmer, grower and landlord with regard to Bardana, purchase, payments and distribution and ensure that there is no complaint to Zamindar/ Farmer.

4. It is decided that the representative of growers and farmer/ Zamindar from all provinces should be included in Board of Governors of MINFAL. The compliance report should be submitted to the Committee.

5. With regard to Agriculture Pesticide Bill, 2009 and the plant Breeder’s Right Bill, 2010 the Committee decided that as concurrent list is omitted Ministry of food & Agriculture should clarify from the Ministry of Law about the legal position that whether concurrence or resolution of provinces is required. Ministry of Law will give comprehensive opinion on the issue before 20-05-2010. The Committee approved the recommendations of Sub Committee meeting dated 05-03-2010 and 17-04-2010 held under Governorship of Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada and meeting of Sub committee dated 27-03-2010 held under Convenership of Syed Haider Ali Shah, MNA.

Islamabad, May 10, 2010

NA Standind Committee on Human Rights Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS MEETS

Islamabad, the 10th May, 2010: Mr. Riaz Fatyana, MNA/ Chairman Standing Committee on Human Rights chaired a meeting on 10th May, 2010 at 10:30 am in the Committee room No. 7, Parliamentary House, Islamabad.

1. The agenda of meeting was as following:-
i. Discussion on the matter regarding adulterated Food (Milk, Mineral Water and Meat).
ii. Review of Laws regarding Food Adulteration.

2. Chairman Mr. Riaz Fatyana, Miss Fauzia Habib, Mrs. Raheela Baloch and Mr. Jawad Hussain attended the meeting.

3. The Chairman Standing Committee on Human Rights expressed serious concern on the 70% total adulterated food out of which 52% adulterated mineral water is being sold in the market. This adulteration is causing different diseases like cancer, hepatitis, typhoid and hypertension. The Committee further noticed the use of cadmium and lead in the tetra pack milk which is very poisonous and dangerous chemical. Also the food colour used in candies is very dangerous to health. According to the briefing by Ministry of Science and Technology there is 35% of the microbiological contamination in bottled water and 1 kg pure milk is mixed with 39 kg contaminated/chemical milk that comprises of formalin, Urea, bleaching powder, hair removing powder and starch. The Committee Chair shown concern over the use of Arsenic in the water which is very much common in Sindh, use of which increases the risk of nervous breakdown. In the milieu of this situation, out of total, 40% of the diseases prevalent in the country are water borne and about 20-40% hospitalizations are due to these diseases.

4. The Chairman Committee asked the concerned Ministries to inform media regarding the adulterated products as it can play a vital role for the awareness of general public regarding contamination of chemicals in the food products and drinks. The chair also suggested the Federal Government, Provincial and Local Government to work in coordination for provision of hygienic and healthy food. The Chair asked the concerned departments to take necessary steps for the cancellation of licenses and seal the factories of adulterated food manufacturers in order to coup with the situation. In this regard committee suggested that PTV should initiate programs, to expose and give awareness regarding such products to the consumers.

5. The Chairman Standing Committee constituted a monitoring Committee under the Convenership of Miss Fauzia Habib, MNA in order to discuss the legislation on the food quality, policy making, coordination for the joint efforts of the Federal, Provincial and Local Government, to attain positive results, enforcement of present laws and awareness among the general public through media.

Islamabad, May 5, 2010

Standing Committee on Human Rights Meets

STANDING COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS MEETS

Islamabad, May 5, 2010: Mr. Riaz Fatyana, MNA/ Chairman Standing Committee on Human Rights chaired a meeting on 05th May, 2010 at 10:30 am in the Committee room No. 7, Parliamentary House, Islamabad.

2. The agenda of meeting was as following:-

i. National Commission on Human Rights Bill, 2008.
ii. Review of present Budget of Ministry of Human Rights, 2009-2010.
iii. Discussion on proposal for the next Budget of the Ministry of Human Rights 2010-2011.

3. Mrs. Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, Mrs. Shakeela Khanum Rasheed, Ms. Raheela Baloch, Dr. Arish Kumar, Mrs. Kishwar Zehra, Mrs. Yasmeen Rehman, Dr. Attiya Inayatullah and Minister for Human Rights attended the meeting.

4. The Committee expressed concern that human rights violation cases appear in the Media warmly but after due time these incidents disappear and facts are not brought into the notice of public. It has been, therefore, decided to call concerned police officers/ District Administration and explain the progress report on a meeting scheduled to be held on 1st June 2010 in National Assembly with regard to the following cases:-

i. Torture on Abida Hameed by civil Lines Police Station Faisalabad.
ii. Kidnape and rape of Ms Shazia working with Dawoo in Sialkot.
iii. Kidnapping/ rape of 6-7 children from Daska and death of two children.
iv. The report of buying alive of women in Naseerabad by feudal lords and burning alive of four Baloch in September 2008.
v. Incidents of acid throwing on three women in Kalat, Baluchistan in April, 2010.
vi. About 70 Dalit Hindu families have left to protest the growing incidence of kidnapping of their young women in tharparkar, Sindh. The kidnapping typically leads to rape or forced conversion to Islam and marriage.
vii. Missing persons in Baluchistan/ private Jails in Dera Bugti.

5. Regarding Budget of Ministry of Human Rights for the year 2009-2010 and 2010-2011, the main reason of the new budget is empowerment & independence of institutions and setting of goals/ targets in advance for achievement in a limited period. For Ministry of Human Rights, a budget allocation of Rs. 56.562 million for the current Financial year 2009-10 has been made by Ministry of Finance. An amount of Rs. 61.087 million has also been allocated for the next financial year 2010-11. Ministry of Human Rights demanded an amount of Rs. 208.5 million as additional funds, for Financial year 2010-11. Ministry of Finance has agreed to provide Rs. 40.00 million as additional budget against demand of Rs. 208.5 millions. The Committee felt that Rs. 101 millions allocated for the purpose is not enough to meet the future requirements of Ministry of Human Rights.

6. With regard to National Commission on Human Rights Bill, 2008, the Committee desired to make the Act more practicable, viable and effective in the interest of Human Rights values. The Committee further desired to include input of Ministry of Human Rights, NGOs and Ministry of Law.

7. The Committee took serious notice of target killings of Federal Government/ Provincial employees in Baluchistan and passed resolution to repatriate them to Islamabad or provinces as per desire of the employees.

Islamabad, April 28, 2010

Standing Committee on Finance & Revenue Meeting

STANDING COMMITTEE ON FINANCE & REVENUE MEETING

Islamabad, the 28th April, 2010: The Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue met under the Chairpersonship of Mrs. Fauzia Wahab, Chairperson Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue today to examine the Federal Value Added Tax, Bill 2010, today in Parliament House.

Secretary/Chairman FBR briefed the Committee that Pakistan is committed to increase its income by implementing broad based value added tax (VAT) with effect from July 2010 so that. the growth of sales and tax revenue is not suffered anymore in the coming years. The documentation of the national economy is another critical cause to introduce VAT. It will replace the existing regimes of sales tax and excises on services with proper in-built facility for smooth transition. The VAT system will purely on self assessment and voluntary compliance basis as per international practice. He further explained that there are two different sets of laws, one for the federal sales tax and other for provinces including Islamabad Capital Territory whereas the Federal VAT would cover goods and federal list services, while the Provincial VAT would cover all remaining services including telecom services. The Provincial VAT would be collected and enforced by the Federal Government if provincial governments chose to be. He suggested that both the Federal and the Provincial VATs should operate as an integrated tax regime with mutual cross-crediting to ensure that its overall character remains “national” as per best international practices. These are mutually adjustable so that double taxation does not accrue under any circumstances. He added that in VAT the Zero rating would be confined to exports only. Another radical change is that the FBR surrenders its powers to grant emergency exemptions. Now this power under VAT rests with the Federal Government. All the exports shall remain zero tax-rated and the annual threshold across the board is increased from 5 million to 7.5 million. He informed that in order to bring transparency and reduce the level of corruption to the minimal level, cash flow of businesses shall be facilitated through efficient and expeditious VAT Refund System. An Alternative dispute resolution system has also been provided under the new law as usual for adjudication and appeals.

The Committee opined that it is need of time to expand national tax base and to increase tax to GDP ratio so that country is self reliant in its resources however Committee expressed its concern that VAT may be exploitative to a common man and the tax on each level of value addition in a product will accumulate a heavy burden on consumers and it will cause inflation in the economy. Committee also stressed that the reservations of all Provinces should be properly delt with and the other stake holders should be on board and there is a need to form a consensus on all disputed matter. Finally the Committee decided to consider the Federal Value Added Tax (VAT) Bill, 2010 clause wise in tomorrow’s meeting.

The meeting was attended by Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali, Ms. Nafisa Shah, Mir Nighat Perveen, Mrs. Khalida Mansoor, Mr. Riaz Fatyana, Mr. Abdul Rashid Godil, Ms. Bushra Gohar, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Mr. Munir Khan Orakzai, Mr. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Mrs. Kashmala Tariq and Aftab Shahban Mirani, MNAs, along with officials of State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs.

Islamabad, March 31, 2010

A-3 Member U.S. Congressional Delegation Meetings with the Members of Women Parliamentarians Caucus(WPC), Board of Governors of PIPS

A-3 MEMBER U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION MEETINGS WITH THE MEMBERS OF WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS CAUCUS(WPC), BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF PIPS

Islamabad; March 31, 2010: A-3 member U.S Congressional Delegation led by Mr. David Price, Member House of Representative/Chairman House Democracy Partnership Initiative currently visiting Pakistan to launch the said initiative held interactive meetings with the Members of Women Parliamentarians Caucus (WPC), Board of Governors of PIPS, and Social Sector Standing Committees of the National Assembly in Parliament House, today.

While talking to the delegation, the Women Parliamentarians stressed for enhanced interaction between the U.S women parliamentarians in order to benefit from their experiences and to formulate policies and find workable solutions regarding issues confronting womenfolk in Pakistan. Members of WPC apprised the U.S Parliamentarians about the plight of women, who were subjected to malnutrition, illiteracy, lack of medical health care and economic problems. They said that women needed to be protect, educated and economically empowered so that they could better perform in the national development alongwith men.

The Congressmen appreciated the concerns of Women MPs and assured them of their all out support. They extended intellectual support to the Women MPs for carrying out women centric legislation.

The Congressmen later met Members of Board of Governors of Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS). Various issues of mutual interest were discussed. The Congressmen appreciated the idea of establishment of PIPS and extend support for enhancing research facilities in PIPS for the parliamentarians. They suggested to share the huge repository of research material in the U.S Congressional Research Service.

The Congressmen met chairmen of Social Sector Standing Committees of National Assembly i.e. Social Welfare & Special Education, Education, Health, Environment, Commerce, Labour and Industries. The Chairmen appreciated the assistance of U.S Government for social sector reforms and infrastructure development. They highlighted various social sectors for which government of U.S may extend innovative expertise and financial assistance.

The U.S Congressmen said that the concerns raised by the legislators were of vital importance and needed to be addressed promptly for benefit of common man. They said that U.S would address all such concerns through the House Democracy Partnership Initiative.

Islamabad, March 9, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Social Welfare Stresses for Implementation of Juvenile Justice System

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON SOCIAL WELFARE STRESSES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM

Islamabad; March 09, 2010: National Assembly Standing Committee on Social Welfare and Special Education has stressed for implementation of Juvenile Justice System so that institutional mechanism could be established for dispensation of justice to the juvenile offenders. The Committee decided to invite Provincial Ministers for Social Welfare and Registrars of Provincial High Courts in its next meeting to discuss its implementation. The Committee met under the chairpersonship of Ms. Rubina Sadaat Qaimkhani in the Parliament House today.

The Committee was apprised by the Secretary M/o Social Welfare and Special Education that juvenile justice system was promulgated in year 2000 which aimed to provided a unified system to be implemented by the provincial governments which deals with establishment of special Brostal Institution/remand homes and provision of legal assistance to the juvenile delinquents and their rehabilitation on state expense. He further informed that due financial constraints provinces had not yet established the required number Brostal Institutions and separate courts and appointed probation officers. He further informed that limited health, education, counseling, recreational facilities and vocational training were being provided by provincial governments with the help of civil society organizations.

The Committee was of the view that provincial governments should allocate substantial amount for the implementation of juvenile justice system in their respective jurisdiction and also involve civil society organizations and other international donor agencies to supplement its efforts

The Committee was also briefed by the Managing Director, Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal regarding fake medical assistance claims submitted to the Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal by the employees of Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi. The M.D informed that on suspicion, the claims were investigated. Resultantly the scandal was unearth hospital wherein an employees of Hospital had submitted fake claims of Rs.3 million to the Bait-ul-Mal. The case was initially investigated by the Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal and later handed over to FIA for further investigation. He further informed that all persons involved in the said case had been arrested and were being proceeded against under the law. The Committee appreciated the efforts of M.D and said that a strict monitoring mechanism may be devised to avoid reoccurrence of such incidents in future.

Later the Committee was briefed about the Special Education Institution in Islamabad and other provinces. The Committee appreciated the efforts of the Ministry and directed for establishment of such institutions in the remote areas of the country. The Committee constituted a Sub-Committee under the convenership of Mr. Akram Masih Gill, MNA to discuss and formulate guidelines for the Ministry on child related issues. The Committee directed the ministry to extend assistance to the family of late Shazia who died in Lahore due to domestic violence.

The meeting was attended by MNAs. Dr. Lal Chand, Mrs. Shamshad Satar Bachani, Mr. Azeem Daultana, Mr. Akram Masih Gill, Mrs. Imrana Saeed Jamil, Molvi Asmatullah, Secretary M/o Social Welfare and other senior officers of the attach departments of the ministry.

Islamabad, March 05, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Human Rights Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS MEETS

Islamabad, March 05, 2010: Mr. Riaz Fatyana, MNA/Chairman Standing Committee on Human Rights chaired a meeting on 4th March, 2010 at 10:30 am in the Committee room No. 7, Parliamentary House, Islamabad.

2. The agenda of meeting was as following:-

i. UN Conventions / Treaties yet to be signed by Pakistan

ii. UN Conventions, where Pakistan is signatory but ratification is awaited.

iii. UN Conventions which are signed and ratified by Pakistan but implementation is awaited

iv. State of Pakistani prisoners in foreign jails and role of Ministry of Foreign Affairs for release.

v. Any other item with the permission of Chair.

3. The members of National Assembly Mrs. Shakeela Khanum Rasheed, Mrs. Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, Ms. Fauzia Habib, Dr. Mehreen Razaq Bhutto, Dr. Sumaira Yasir Rashid, Mrs. Kishwar Zehra, Mr. Khawaja Sheraz Mehmood and Dr. Arish Kumar, attended the meeting.

4. Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs appreciated the efforts made by Mr. Riaz Fatyana as well as Committee for the cause of Human Rights Protection. They briefed the Standing Committee on the status of Signature/ Ratification/ Succession of various International Treaties/Conventions by Pakistan. The Committee noticed that many Conventions/Treaties are not yet signed due to completion of codal formalities by different Ministries including Ministry of Women Development, Ministry of Labour and Manpower, Ministry of Information, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Committee directed Ministry of Foreign Affairs to complete all requirements immediately and furnish report as soon as possible.

5. Standing Committee desired that Ministry of Foreign Affairs should prepare a report on work done for release of Dr. Afia and missing of her daughter Maryam and recommended for repatriation of Dr. Afia on diplomatic level.

6. The Chairman Standing Committee directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to prepare the Annual Report on Human Rights in Pakistan in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Rights. Ministry of Foreign Affairs will brief the Standing Committee on the Seminars and International forums specific to Human Rights So that Parliamentarians can work for betterment of Human Rights.

7. The Chairman Standing Committee directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to furnish a detailed report on the visits of foreign jails. The Committee directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take steps for the return of prisoners in foreign jails of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE and India as prisoners are in the worst condition.

8. The Committee recommended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work on capacity building in order to expedite the smooth work.

9. Regarding the non ratification of the Convention on the Nationality of Married Women (1957) the Chairman Standing Committee advised Ministry of Interior and the movers of the bill of Citizenship Act to examine the issue and take policy decision which should be included in CEDAW Report.

Islamabad, March 03, 2010

Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reforms Meets

PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS MEETS

The Parliamentary Committee for Constitutional Reforms, in its meetings held in February, 2010, decided unanimously to amend Articles of the Constitution pertaining to the procedure for the appointment of Judges to the Superior Judiciary.

The Parliamentary Committee is conscious and committed to the concept of an independent and impartial judiciary, therefore, while unanimously proposing these amendments to Parliament, it has kept in mind the essentials of an independent judiciary, transparency and merit in the appointment of Judges while maintaining the delicate balance of trichotomy of power as envisaged in the Constitution.

The entire proceedings till date of the Committee have been held in camera. After the said recommendation on the appointment of Judges to the Superior Judiciary, contradictory report pertaining to the recommendations began to surface. Conscious of the sensitivity of the issue the Committee has, therefore, decided to make this particular proposal public so that the correct facts are before the people.

The detailed proposals for appointments are reproduced herein as under:

a) There shall be a Judicial Commission of Pakistan comprised as follows;

(i) The Chief Justice of Pakistan, Chairman;

(ii) Two senior-most Judges of the Supreme Court;

(iii) Federal Minister for Law and Justice;

(iv) Attorney General of Pakistan and;

(v) A Senior Advocate to be nominated by the Pakistan Bar Council.

(b) For appointments to a Provincial High Court the Commission will be expanded to include the following.-

(i) The Chief Justice of the High Court to which the appointments are being made;

(ii) Senior-most Judge of that High Court;

(iii) Provincial Minister for Law and;

(iv) A Senior Advocate to be nominated by the Provincial Bar Council.

(c) For appointments to the Islamabad High Court the Commission will comprise the following, in addition to the Judicial Commission of Pakistan.-

(i) Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court;

(ii) The most senior Judge of that Court;

(iii) For the initial appointments to Islamabad High Court the Chief Justices of the four High Courts shall also be members.

(d) For appointments in Federal Shariat Court, the Commission will comprise the following, in addition to the Judicial Commission of Pakistan.-

(i) Chief Justice of Federal Shariat Court and;

(ii) The most senior Judge of that Court.

When a vacancy occurs in the Office of Chief Justice of Pakistan, it was decided that the most senior Judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan will become the Chief Justice.

(1) The Judicial Commission, by a majority of the total membership, shall recommend one name for each vacancy in the Supreme Court or the High Courts, to the Parliamentary Committee;

(2) The Parliamentary Committee shall consist of eight members, with the following break-up.–

(i) four members from the Senate of Pakistan;

(ii)four members from the National Assembly of Pakistan to be equally divided between the Treasury and the Opposition ;

(iii)the Committee may not disapprove a recommendation made by the Judicial Commission except by a 3/4th majority of the Committee and in such a case, the Commission shall send a new name for its consideration;

(iv)the Committee shall decide the matter within fourteen days of the receipt of recommendations, failing which the recommendations made by the Judicial Commission shall be deemed to have been confirmed.

It may thus be noted that actually the present powers of the President/Chief Executive in the appointment of Judges will now be exercised in a more transparent manner by the Parliamentary Committee. However the formal appointment will be made by the President of Pakistan.

Islamabad, February 23, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Inter Provincial Coordination Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON INTER PROVINCIAL COORDINATION MEETS

Islamabad, February 23, 2010: A meeting of the Standing Committee on Inter Provincial Coordination held on 23rd February, 2010 in Committee Room No.2, Parliament House, Islamabad for election of its Chairman.

The Members of National Assembly, Mir Ahmedan Khan Bugti, Nawab Muhammad Yousaf Talpur, Syed Nasir Ali Shah, Haji Roz-ud-Din, Mr. Gulf Muhammad Jakhrani, Syed Khurshid Ali Shah, Chief web were present. Mr. Karamat Hussain Niazi, Secretary National Assembly, Mr. Safdar Hussain Malik, Additional Secretary, National Assembly and Najma Siddiqui, Joint Secretary, National Assembly also attended the meeting.

The meeting of the Committee commenced with the recitation form Holy Quran. Mr. Karamat Hussain Niazi, Secretary, National Assembly welcomed the Members for attending the meeting and briefed them about the election of Chairman Standing Committee.

Mr. Nair Ali Shah, MNA proposed the name of Mir Ahmedan Khan Bugti, MNA for Chairmanship whereas Haji Roz-ud-Din, MNA and all other members who were present in meeting seconded his proposal. Since no other member was proposed, so Mir Ahmedan Khan Bugti, MNA was declared as the Chairman of the Committee un-opposed.

Mir Ahmedan Khan Bugti, MNA/ Chairman was invited to chair the meeting. All the Members felicitated the Chairman being elected un-opposed and extended their full cooperation. Mir Ahmedan Khan Bugti, MNA/ Chairman thanked the Members of the Standing Committee for reposing confidence in him and assured them to take care of all issues/ matters of public interest and said that he would work in accordance with the aspirations of the Members of the Standing Committee.

Islamabad, February 19, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad, February 19, 2010: A Meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence was held today the 19th February, 2010 to discuss and deliberate the following agenda items:-

(i) The Act Governing the Cantonment Boards
(ii) The Financial details/working of DHA, Karachi
(iii) Problems being faced by residents of DHA, Karachi

The following Members of the National Assembly of Pakistan, beside the Honourable Chairperson, attended the meeting Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur, MNA, Begum Ishrat Ashraf, MNA, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, MNA, Mr. Ayaz Amir, MNA, Syed Haider Ali Shah, MNA, Mr. Jawad Hussain, MNA.

The Addl. Secretary Defence, and Administrator DHA, Karachi and other officers of Ministry of Defence were also present.

A Sub-Committee consisting of Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur as Convener, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, Mir Amir Ali Khan Magsi and Begum Ishrat Ashraf, MNAs as members has been formed. The Sub-Committee will examine all the issues relating to DHA, Karachi and the complaints of the residents against DHA. The Committee informed that the issue of refurbishment charges is sub-judice, therefore the Committee deferred its deliberation on this issue.

The Addl. Secretary Defence informed the Committee that the summary for the regularization of the services of the female honourary teachers working in the schools of Cantt and Garrison has been forwarded to the Prime Minister Secretariat and Ministry of Finance.

The Honourable Chairperson thanked all the participants for attending the meeting and giving their invaluable output.

Islamabad, February 8, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad, February 8, 2010: A Meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence was held today the 8th February, 2010. The committee expressed its deepest condolence on the death of Mr. Ajmal Khattak and offered FATEH for Marhoom.

After this the committee considered and deliberated the following agenda.

1. Pakistan Naval Academy (Award of Degrees) Amendment Bill, 2010.
2. Briefing on Civil Aviation Authority.
3. Any other item with the permission of the Chair.

The following Members of the National Assembly of Pakistan, beside the Honourable Chairperson, attended the meeting Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, MNA, Mr. Ayaz Amir, MNA, Mr. Jawad Hussain, MNA, Syed Haider Ali Shah, MNA, Dr. Talat Mahesar, MNA.

The high ranking officers from the Ministry of Defence, National Defence University including the Secretary Defence also attended the meeting.

The Committee discussed the Pakistan Naval Academy (Award of Degrees) Amendment Bill, 2010 and unanimously passed it.

The Committee was given comprehensive briefing about introduction, restructuring regulatory and operational performance of Civil Aviation Authority.

The Committee recommended that the Civil Aviation should take immediate steps to improve the outlook of the Air ports of the Country, the plantation should be done around airports and public transport should be made available at all airports.

The Committee directed that the service of honorary teachers working in the Cantt and Garrison Schools should not be terminated and further directed that their services should be regularized and the Ministry of Finance should arrange necessary funds for this purpose.

The Secretary Ministry of Defence assured the committee that the necessary steps are being taken, in the light of the recommendations of this committee, for the regularization of their services and assured the committee that this issue will be resolved shortly.

Islamabad, January 28, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Women’s Development Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT MEETS

The Standing Committee on Women’s Development has directed the Ministry of Women’s Development (MOWD) to notify the Review Committee for GRAP to expedite the GRAP’s 3rd party review process. The Committee met in Parliament House under Chairpersonship of Bushra Gohar, today. The Chairperson further asked MoWD to make special efforts to involve Provincial Women Development Departments and key stakeholders from Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the GRAP review process. Further, the Committee noted with concern the parallel GRAP implementation mechanism funded by the ADB through the Ministry of Finance and called on the Government and the Donors not to support parallel projects which weaken the mainstream initiative by the MOWD.

While discussing NCSW, the Committee discussed the proposed legislation for NCSW’s autonomous status directing the MOWD to expedite the required inter ministerial review process and submit the bill in the assembly without any further delay.

The Committee also took serious note of the reported lapse of funds for NCSW and asked the MOWD to present a detailed report on the reasons for this to the committee in its next meeting.

The Committee also discussed the report of Sub-Committee on legislation on the five bills referred to the Sub Committee by the National Assembly. The Committee thoroughly discussed the report and the three bills “The Women Honour Bill, 2009 (Private Member’s Bill), “the In-House Working Women Protection Bill, 2008 (Private Member’s Bill) and The Working Women (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2008 (Private Member’s Bill) were retuned back to the movers with detailed comments. The Government’s bill on “Women in Distress and Detention Fund (Amendment) Ord. NO. 1 of 2008) was referred to the MoWD for redrafting while the 4th bill on “the Prevention of Anti-Women Practices (Criminal Law Amendment) Bill, 2008. (Private Member Bill) was unanimously passed by the Committee and referred to the House for enactment.

The Committee reiterated its concerns that women were not adequately represented on Governing Boards and at key policy levels such as the PIA, FBR, FPSC, PTV etc. and directed the MoWD to submit a detailed report to the committee key decision-making bodies constituted by the Federal Government.

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Sardar Al-Haaj Muhammad Umar Gorgage, Mrs. Fouzia Aijaz Khan Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, Mrs. Shakeela Khanam Rashid, Dr. Zil-e-Huma, Ms. Qudsia Arshad, Mrs. Nisar Tanveer, Mr. Riaz Fatyana, Mover, Members of NCSW. the Secretary and other officials of the MoWD.

Islamabad, January 27, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Food and Agriculture Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON FOOD AND AGRICULTURE MEETS

Islamabad January 27, 2010: Mr. Javed Iqbal Warraich, MNA/ Chairman Standing Committee on Food and Agriculture chaired a meeting on 27th January, 2010 at 10:30 am in Committee Room No.02, Parliament House, Islamabad. The agenda of meeting was as following:-

i. The Agriculture Pesticide Bill, 2009.
ii. The Seed (Amendment) Bill, 2010.
iii. The Plant Breeder’s Rights Bill, 2010.
iv. Any other item with the permission of chair.


2. Ch. Iftikhar Nazir, Syed Javed Hassnain, Mr. Muhammad Baligh-ur-Rehman, Mr. Muhammad Arshad Khan Laghari, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada, Syed Haider Ali Shah, Mir Changez Khan Jamali, Minister for Food & Agriculture, Ex-Offico Member attended the meeting.

3. The representatives from respective departments given briefing on the Agriculture Pesticides Bill, 2009 and the Seed (Amendment) Bill, 2010. The proposed bills contain criteria and mechanism of documentation, registration and quality control. The Committee appreciated that proposed amendments will encourage the private sector for investment. It will facilitate the availability of quality to the farming community and decrease the reliance on imports. These bills contain equal representation from private and public sector. It will make the business transparent.

4. With regard to the Agriculture Pesticides Bill, 2009, the Committee said that FAO and WHO have further revised certain specification of pesticides. The Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997 has been promulgated by the Government. Pakistan is signatory to international protocols and conventions including Rotterdam convention, Stockholm Convention and Montreal Convention. The amendments therefore become necessary to make law consistent with them. The Committee discussed in detail the bill, proposed minor amendments and requested Mr. Muhammad Baligh-ur-Rehman, Chaudhary Wajahat Hussain and Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada to finalize the Bill as soon as possible.

5. With regard to the Seed (Amendment) Bill, 2010, few amendments have been incorporated in view of increasing role of private sector by registration of seed companies, seed dealers and seed processing units. It will provide pre-basic seed for the production of basic and certified seed in private sector. The bill will enhance penalties to curb the sale of sub-standard seed in the market. The proposed bill will regulate the quality of transgenic varieties developed through genetic engineering. The Committee proposed some amendments in Rule 6, sub-rule 22 C, 22 D, 22 F, 22 G, 22 I and 22 J of Rule10 of the Bill. The Committee also made following recommendations:-

i. Ministry of Law to recheck the Bill.
ii. Ministry of Food and Agriculture will issue instructions to all Provinces to establish a fully equipped Seed laboratory.
iii. Fee structure on inspection and seed is implemented in letter and spirit.
iv. Ministry of Food and Agriculture should explore the research work for sugarcane seed and furnish report to the Committee.

6. Due to paucity of time the Plant Breeder’s Rights Bill, 2010 was deferred.

Islamabad, January 19, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad, January 19, 2010: The Standing Committee on Defence visited various sites of the D.H.A Islamabad which included D.H.A Phase-I, Phase-II, Phase-II extension D.H.A valley and D.H.A homes. The Secretary Ministry of Defence received the delegation at D.H.A office where the committee members were given briefing by the Secretary Defence and Administrator D.H.A.

The Committee also visited the proposed health and education facilities to be provided by the D.H.A. to its inhabitants. The committee was impressed by the faculty development programme of National Institute of Health. This programme is being developed with the cooperation of Harvard University of the United States of the America.

All the concerns which were being raised in a section of press were addressed by the administration of the D.H.A. The committee was impressed by the scope and vision, quality and pace of work and the architectural standard of D.H.A.

The Committee was impressed by the state of the art facilities to be provided in its Education and Health City.

Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho Chairperson of the Committee and Captain (R) Ghulam Mujtaba Kharal, Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur, Dr. Abdul Wahid Soomro, Dr. Talat Mahesar and Sardar Talab Hassan Nakkai MNA’s visited D.H.A. The members of the committee belonging to PML(N) didn’t join this visit.

The Honorable Chairperson thanked all the members of the Committee and the Administration of the D.H.A. for this visit.

Islamabad, January 14, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad, January 14, 2010: A Meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence was held today the 14th January, 2010 to discuss and deliberate the following agenda items:-

(i) The Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2007.
(ii) Any other item with the permission of the Chair.

The following Members of the National Assembly attended the meeting, Capt (R) Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Kharal, Dr. Abdul Wahid Somroo, Sardar Talib Hassan Nakai, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq and Mr. Ayaz Amir.

The Committee expressed its deep condolence over the death of the Mother of Mir Amir Ali Khan Magsi MNA, and offered Fateha for the departed soul.

The Committee examined the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2007 and decided to invite Mrs. Asima Jahangir and Syed Iqbal Hyder so that they may give their expert opinion on this bill before the committee gives its recommendations for the same. Both the renowned Jurists and Human Rights activist have been invited for its next meeting to be held on 27th of January 2010.

The Committee will visit DHA Islamabad on 19th January 2010; Mr. Ayaz Amir MNA opposed this visit and said that the members from PML (N) will not be visiting DHA Islamabad.

The Committee will visit, in March 2010 any of the School situated in Cantonment Rawalpindi to know the plight of the honorary female teachers who have been working there for the last so many years. The committee had recommended their regularization as has been done in the case of other Government employees.

The Honorable Chairperson thanked all the members of the Committee.

Islamabad, January 8, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Sports Recommends Imposition of Fine on Hockey Players Involved in Unethical Activities in Argemtina

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON SPORTS RECOMMENDS IMPOSITION OF FINE ON HOCKEY PLAYERS INVOLVED IN UNETHICAL ACTIVITIES IN ARGENTINA

Islamabad January 8, 2010: The Standing Committee on Sports has recommended imposition of fine on hockey players involved in unethical activities on the eve of champions Trophy qualifying match in Argentina. The Standing Committee asked the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to initiate disciplinary proceedings against those players so that in future nobody dares to cross the limits of decency and morality. The Standing Committee met in Parliament House under the chairmanship of Mr. Jamshaid Ahmad Dasti, MNA, today.

Mr. Jamshaid Ahmad Dasti asked the PHF to devise a code of ethics for the players representing Pakistan in international tournaments with directions for its strict observance by all concerned. He said that it was really pathetic to know that the people representing Pakistan in foreign countries indulge in unethical and unhealthy activities bring disrespect to the country. He further asked the PHF to rusticate such players from the national team who contravene the code of ethics in future.

The Committee also discussed the implementations of the findings of the Lahore High Court Tribunal regarding attack on Sri Lankan Cricket Team in Lahore. The Committee conveyed its displeasure on the pace of implementation of the recommendations of the Inquiry Tribunal. The Chairman was of the view that the inquiry tribunal had clearly fixed responsibility on the Police Officials responsible for providing security cover to the Sri Lankan Team and had recommended stern action against the delinquent officials. He asked the Secretary Establishment Division to expedite the process.

Responding to the observations of the Committee, Secretary Establishment Division informed the committee that the delinquent Police officials were working in Punjab Province, therefore, Secretary Home Department, Punjab has been asked to initiate disciplinary action against all concerned under Civil Servants Acts at the earliest. He assured the committee that all the officials would be penalized for their delinquency after fulfilling the procedural requirements and the committee would be kept abreast.

The Committee unanimously expressed its no-confidence on the management of Pakistan Cricket Board and reiterated its demand to the President of Pakistan being Patron of the PCB for termination of services of top management of PCB including Chairman, Chief Operating Officer, Director International Cricket Operations and Coach of Pakistan Cricket Team. The committee observed that the incompetence of the management of PCB had brought the Cricket in Pakistan to a verge of collapse.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Mr. Aamir Yar Warn, Syed Inayat Ali Shah, Begum Nasim Akthar Chaudhry, Mr. Ramesh Lal, Malak Azmat Khan, Pir Muhammad Aslam Bodla, Syed Tayyab Hussain, Mr. Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan, Mr. Muzaffar-ul-Mulk, Additional Secretary M/o Sports, Secretary Establishment Division, Director General Pakistan Sports Board and officials of Pakistan Hockey Federation.

Islamabad, January 6, 2010

Standing Committee on I.T and Telecom Probes into the Privitization of PTCL

STANDING COMMITTEE ON I.T AND TELECOM PROBES INTO THE PRIVITIZATION OF PTCL

Islamabad January 6, 2010: The Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications today summoned and heard officials of the Ministries of Privatization and Information Technology & Telecom who were involved in the privatization process of the Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited. The Standing Committee expressed its reservations on the whole privatization process and said that it seems as the Government wanted to get rid of the PTCL which was undoubtedly a profit earning entity at the time of its privatization. The Committee met under the chairmanship of Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, MNA in Parliament House, today to further probe into the privatization of PTCL.

The Committee after listening to the officials of Ministries of Privatization and I.T and Telecommunication opined that PTCL despite having remarkable financial portfolio and operational results was privatized to such an entity which did not fulfilled its contractual obligation despite grant of unprecedented concessions by the government. The Committee also expressed its reservations on exclusion of Telephone Industries of Pakistan from the privatization process which was a subsidiary of PTCL leaving it in a lurch.

The Former Secretaries of Privatization and I.T and Telecom contended that the privatization process was carried out through diligence and in a transparent manner and the negotiation between the buyer and the government of Pakistan had the concurrence of the highest forums i.e. CCOP, ECC and the Cabinet. They said that after the deregulation of Telecom sector and huge burden of employees, it was obvious that the entity would have suffered huge losses and the government would have to provide huge subsidy for its sustenance. Therefore, the price which PTCL fetched by its sale was best price.

The Secretary M/o Privatization informed the committee that the Etisilat, the buyer of PTCL had stopped the payment of the installments till the transfer of PTCL properties in the name of the company. He further informed that the provincial government and other departments have been asked to expedite the process of transfer of land to PTCL so that they payment from the Etisilat could be actualized.

The Committee decided to compile its findings on the privatization of PTCL after hearing to all the concerned in its ensuing meeting. The Committee asked The Secretary M/o I.T and Telecom to prepare a comprehensive package for the revitalization of Telephone Industries of Pakistan and saving its employees from being dislocation.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Talat Mahesar, Ch. Iftikhar Nazir, Mir Munawar Ali Talpur, Mrs. Farhat Khan, Mr. Muhammad Faiz Tamman, Syed Muhammad Saqlain Bokhari, Khawaja Shiraz Mehmood, Miss MArvi Memon, Malak Azmat Khan, Secretary M/o I.T & Telecom, Additional Secretary M/o Privatization, Ex-Secretaries of IT & Telecom and Privatization, Ex-Chairman PTCL and other officers of the concerned departments.

Islamabad, January 1, 2010

NA Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting Recommends Establishment of Welfare Fund for Journalists

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING RECOMMENDS ESTABLISHEMNT OF WELFARE FUND FOR JOURNALISTS

Islamabad January 1, 2010: Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting has asked the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to strengthen the Press Information Department in order to counter the negative perception about Pakistan. The Standing Committee also asked for provision of required manpower and resources to P.I.D so that it could perform up to the mark. The Standing Committee met under the chairpersonship of Mrs. Belum Hussnain, MNA in Press Information Department Building, Islamabad for briefing on working and performance of the P.I.D, today.

The Committee appreciated the performance of P.I.D and opined that P.I.D being the principal projection arm of the government, was doing tremendous job despite financial and human resource constraints. The Committee was of the view that it could perform well if the required human resource was provide by the government. The committee appreciated the efforts of P.I.D for pursuing pro-journalist policies and asked to establish a revolving fund under the PID for the welfare of the journalists specially those working in the conflict zones. The Committee also asked the M/o I&B to provide financial assistance for the establishment of Press Clubs at Tehsil level. The Committee recommended that all the vacant post in PID may also be filled in besides enhancing the pay structure of the officers so that they can perform well.

Syed Sumsam Ali Bokhari, Minister of State for I&B agreed with the committee and assured his Ministry’s all-out support for fulfilling the requirements of the department to enhance its efficacy. He informed the Committee that the present democratic dispensation in the country believed in freedom of media and that was evident from the criticism being done on the government and its policies. He said that Media supplements the government by objectively criticizing on it which improves governance. He said that government had reserved quotas for media men in government sponsored housing schemes and would also support the establishment of Fund for journalists and press clubs in remote areas of the country.

Earlier, the Principal Information Officer, P.I.D briefed the Committee about the organizational structure of the department and scope of its activities. He apprised the committee that being the principal publicity arm of the government, it provides public relations services to all the ministries of the Federal Government, conducts foreign media during visits of VVIPs to Pakistan, acts as focal point for release of government advertisements to newspapers besides extending financial assistance to ailing/handicapped journalists and their families, press clubs all over the country and facilitating electronic and print media during sessions of the parliament. He further informed the committee that P.I.D had maintained record of newspapers since 1947, which was a unique attraction for researchers, historians, scholars, writers and students. He said that however, despite paucity of funds and manpower, it was trying to come up to the expectations of the government.

The Members of the Committee said that newspapers record with PID was a unique treasure which should be preserved by using latest techniques so that the future generations could benefit from it. They also recommended for publicizing about it as majority of the people were not aware of that unique treasure.

The meeting was attended by Syed Sumsam Ali Bokhari, Minister of State for I&B, MNAs Syed Amir Ali Shah, Mir Amir Ali Khan Magsi, Mrs. Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, Begum Nuzhat Sadiq, Mrs. Shireen Arshad Khan, Rana Nazir Ahmad Khan, Mrs. Bushra Rehman, Mr. Farhat Muhamamd Khan, Mr. Istiqbal Khan, Principal Information Officer, P.I.D and other officers of the Ministry of I&B.

Islamabad, December 23, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad, December 23, 2009: A Meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence was held today the 23rd December, 2009 to discuss and deliberate the following agenda items:-

(i) The Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2007.
(ii) Any other item with the permission of the Chair.

The following Members of the National Assembly attended the meeting, Capt (R) Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Kharal, Dr. Talat Mahesar, Begum Ishrat Ashraf, Sardar Talib Hassan Nakai, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq.

Mr. Aitzaz Ahsan, on special invitation attended the meeting. The Committee welcomed his presence. Mr. Aitzaz Ahsan gave comprehensive briefing on the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2007. He cited various judgments of the Supreme Court wherein Military Courts were declared null and void. However he shared the concern of the Committee that the special circumstances demand special legislation. He opined that the Military Courts established by amending the Pakistan Army Act, will pass the test of judicial scrutiny if they meet the international standard of adjudication.

He said the proposed amendment doesn’t meet that standard. He stressed that the following six principles should be ensured if the Courts under Army Act, are to be setup.

1. The appointments of the presiding officers should be in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court.
2. Security of their tenure.
3. Their judgments should be in the shape of speaking orders, that is, they should give reasons for their orders.
4. Speaking orders shall be passed by the Tribunals.
5. Right of appeal before High Court.
6. Period of enforceability of such special legislation should be described.

After this briefing the Committee deferred the Bill for further deliberation in its next meeting. The Committee thanked Mr. Aitzaz Ahsan for giving such valuable briefing on this important Bill.

The Honourable Chairperson thanked all the participants particularly Mr. Aitzaz Ahsan for attending the meeting and giving their invaluable output.

Islamabad, December 17, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad, December 17, 2009: A Meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence was held today the 17th December, 2009 to discuss and deliberate the following agenda items:-

(i) The Defence Housing Authority, Islamabad Bill, 2007
(ii) The Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2007.
(iii) The regularization of services of honorary Female Teachers working in Federal Government Cant and Garrisons Schools.
(iv) Any other item with the permission of the Chair.

The following Members of the National Assembly attended the meeting, Capt (R) Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Kharal, Mr. Ayaz Amir, Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur, Dr. Talat Mahesar, Begum Ishrat Ashraf, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, Syed Haider Ali Shah.

The Committee discussed, in detail, the Defence Housing Authority, Islamabad Bill, 2007 and passed it with majority vote. Mr. Ayaz Amir and Begum Ishrat Ashraf opposed the Bill, Mr. Ayaz Amir will give his dissenting note as well.

The Committee deferred further deliberation on the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2007. The Committee decided that as this Bill contains very important issue relating to fundamental rights therefore Mr. Aitzaz Ahsan and Mr. Latif Afridi have been invited to brief the members about various aspects of the Bill so that they are better positioned to accord or refuse approval to this Bill.

The Secretary Defence submitted that he has no objection to regularize the services of the honorary lady teachers working in the schools of Ministry of Defence. He informed the Committee that more than 1200 such teachers have been working as honorary lady teachers and some of them have been serving for the last 22 years. Their services can be regularized if enough funding is provided by the Government. The Committee recommended that enough funding should be made available for the said purpose.

The Honourable Chairperson thanked all the participants for attending the meeting and giving their invaluable output.

Islamabad, November 25, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad, November 25, 2009: A Meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence was held today the 25th November, 2009 to discuss and deliberate the following agenda items:-

1. The Institute of Space Technology Bill, 2007.
2. The Pakistan Army(Amendment Bill, 2007)

The following Members of the National Assembly of Pakistan, beside the Honourable Chairperson, attended the meeting Capt (R) Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Kharal, MNA , Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur, MNA, Mir Amir Ali Khan Magsi, MNA, Dr. Abdul Wahid Soomro, MNA, Begum Islhrat Ashraf, MNA, Sardar Talib Hassan Nakai, MNA, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, MNA.

The high ranking officers from the Ministry of Defence including the Secretary Defence also attended the meeting.

The Committee discussed and passed unanimously the Institute of Space Technology Bill, 2007 without any amendments therein. Thereafter the committee began its deliberation on the Pakistan Army (Amendment Bill, 2007) and decided that this bill is very important, therefore the input from the Ministry of Law & Justice should be sought before according it approval or otherwise. The committee therefore deferred further deliberation on this bill till next meeting to be held on the 8th of December, 2009.

The Honourable Chairperson thanked all the participants for attending the meeting and giving their invaluable output.

Islamabad, November 24, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad, November 24, 2009: A Meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence was held today the 24th November, 2009 to discuss and deliberate the following agenda items:-

1. The Institute of Space Technology Bill, 2007.
2. The Defence Housing Authority, Islamabad Bill, 2007
3. The National Defence University Bill, 2007.

The following Members of the National Assembly of Pakistan, beside the Honourable Chairperson, attended the meeting Capt (R) Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Kharal, MNA, Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur, MNA, Mir Amir Ali Khan Magsi, MNA, Dr. Abdul Wahid Soomro, MNA, Mr. Ayaz Amir, MNA, Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan, MNA, Begum Islhrat Ashraf, MNA, Sheikh Rohale Asghar, MNA, Sardar Talib Hassan Nakai, MNA, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, MNA, Mr. Jawad Hussain, MNA.

The high ranking officers from the Ministry of Defence, National Defence University including the Secretary Defence also attended the meeting.

The Committee discussed thoroughly the National Defence University Bill and passed it with certain amendments. Thereafter the committee began its deliberation on the Defence Housing Authority, Islamabad bill, 2007 and decided that the representatives from the Ministries of Law, Finance and Auditor General of Pakistan should be invited in the next meeting to be held on the 8th of December, 2009 so that their input is sought before giving approval to this important bill.

The meeting of the committee will be held tomorrow again to take up the remaining items of the agenda.

The committee deferred the consideration on the Institute of Space Technology Bill for tomorrow. After the meeting the Honourable Chairperson thanked all the participants for attending the meeting and giving their invaluable output.

Islamabad, November 18, 2009

IPU Lauds Women Parliamentary Caucus for its Efforts for Women Rights Protection and Empowerment

IPU LAUDS WOMEN PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS FOR ITS EFFORTS FOR WOMEN RIGHTS PROTECTION AND EMPOWERMENT

Islamabad: November 18, 2009. Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) has lauded the efforts of Women Parliamentary Caucus in the National Assembly of Pakistan for the protection of women rights and their empowerment. The appreciation came from IPU in its special report published in connection with the International Women Day being commemorated on 25th November throughout the globe.

IPU, which is the focal point for the parliamentary dialogue and works for fostering cooperation and development among diverse nations before their mutual benefit, in its reports lauded the initiative of Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza, for her sagacious leadership for launching a parliamentary forum. The report said that this bi-partisan Caucus of Women Parliamentarians have enabled its members to rise above party politics and to jointly work for the social economic uplift of the women in Pakistan.

The report specifically mentioned the efforts of WPC for focusing on policy formulation and service delivery for women especially for the women survivals of violence and gender bias. It further said that on the advice of WPC, the government of Pakistan as about to initiate measures to ensure medical and legal aid and security assistance to women survivals of the gender based violence.

The Inter Parliamentary Union also lauded the endeavors of Women Parliamentary Caucus for bringing into limelight, the ordeal of acid and kerosene oil burned victims and their treatment and rehabilitation. The IPU in its report said that the credit goes to WPC for motivating women parliamentarians who have dedicated their development funds to the construction of Burn Treatment Centers in the under develop and remote areas of the country and campaigning for the economic empowering of women survivors.

The IPU advised the parliamentarians to forge national consensus and build cross party alliances to support action for the cause of women empowerment and protection. The Parliamentarian should also involve other stakeholders, civil society and gross root organizations for formulation of sustainable policies.

Islamabad, September 29, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Human Rights Meets to Discuss State of H.R Violations in Police Department

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS MEETS TO DISCUSS STATE OF H.R VIOLATIONS IN POLICE DEPARTMENT

Islamabad September 29, 2009: Expressing serious concern of the Human Rights violations, misbehavior and unruly attitude of police with general public, the Standing Committee on Human rights has asked the Police Force to adopt cooperative and friendly attitude towards public and any violation in that regard would be intolerable. The Standing Committee met under the chairmanship of Mr. Riaz Fatyana, MNA in Parliament house, this morning.

The Standing Committee summoned all the Provincial Inspector Generals of Police, Secretaries Home Departments and Officials from M/o Interior to discuss the dismal state of Human rights violation by the Police Department. The Police and other Officials who were summoned included Mr. Tariq Saleem Dogar, I.G. (Punjab), Mr. Asghar Raza Gardezi, I.G. (Railways), Dr. Waseem Kausar, I.G (Motorways), Syed Kaleem Imam, I.G (ICT), Mr. Babar Khatatk I.G (Sindh), Mr. Javed Ali shah, I.G (Balochistan), Malik Naveed Khan, I.G Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mr. Atif Khan, Secretary (Home), Sindh, Raja Ahsan, Addl. Secretary M/o Interior attended the meeting.

Mr. Riaz Fatyana said that human rights violations by the police personnel had become a common practice especially with women, children, minorities and other vulnerable segments of the society whenever they approach the police for any complaint. He said that instead of redressing their complaints, they are humiliated and often subjected to maltreatment by the police personnel. He warned Police to adopt a positive posture towards public, treat them with honor and their dignity should not be compromised at any cost and their complaints should be redressed without any discrimination strictly in accordance with Article 25 of the constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan and other relevant laws. He stressed for protection of vulnerable and marginalized segments of the society from atrocities by the mighty.

The Standing Committee unanimously recommended that VIP culture should be discouraged and every citizen should be treated at par without discrimination, prejudice and irrespective of their status and position. The Standing Committee asked the Police Chiefs to establish Human Rights Cells under their administrative control and to evolve civil society organizations for better monitoring of pervasive Human rights violations across the country.

The Committee believed that police officials at Thaana level were unfamiliar with the Human Right laws enacted by the legislature. It recommended that police officials should be offered refresher courses so that they could get themselves acquaint by the recent H.R laws. The Committee also stressed the need for chalking out a comprehensive strategy to sensitize police personnel for enhancing their capacity with specific reference to Human Rights. The Committee also asked for establishment of monitoring mechanism at District level under the PSP officers which should check the H.R violations and submit reports in that regard top the Ministry of Human Rights on weekly basis.

The Committee also expressed its concern on the reported increase in number of road accidents on Highways and Motorways up to 7000 per year. It stressed for conducting media campaigns for education of motorists through print and electronic media and directed that driving licenses should only be issued to those applicants who pass the driving tests and in future licenses issued to them should contain the names of the issuing authority. The I.G (Motorway and Highway Police) was asked to ensure road safety for the commuters.

Mr. Riaz Fatyana observed that police stations were the face of the Police Departments; therefore, people should feel safe and walk in with confidence and trust whenever they need police protection and redressal of their complaints.

The Standing Committee asked the Police Chiefs to encourage and promote community policing, establish citizen-liaison and conciliatory committees at police station level so that public should supplement the efforts of the police force in maintaining law and order and keeping a vigilant eye on the miscreants in their respective areas.

The Standing Committee expressed its concern on the weak implementation of the Police Order, 2002. The Committee asked the Ministry of Interior to summit an appraisal report on the implementation status of Police Order 2002. The Committee also opined that Police force was one of the departments which had been extensively politicized. Therefore, it recommended to the government for taking immediate remedial measures for de-politicizing police force so that it could protect the common citizens instead of protecting the interests of the elite class. Mr. Raiz Fatyana said that de-politicizing police could improve its operation efficiency.

The Committee while noting anti-Human Right clauses in the Criminal Procedure Code, said that the said laws were the legacy of the colonial era and needed improvement with special focus on the provision of arrest, investigation, conviction of accused. The Committee directed the M/o Human Rights to suggest appropriate legislative amendments in the CrPC, CPC and other relevant laws. The committee also asked for adoption of latest interrogating techniques and procedures for investigation of crimes by the Police.

Mr. Riaz Fatyana concluding the meeting of the committee recommended to the government for conducting massive reforms in the Police Service of Pakistan and other para-military forces and their salaries and perks should be equal in all the federating units of Pakistan. He also asked for bringing at par, the compensation/incentives offered to the families of the police personnel who lay their lives, with those offered in all four provinces and army personnel martyred during war against terror. 

The Members of the Committee who attended the meeting included Mrs. Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, Mrs. Shakeela Khanum Rashid, Mrs. Yasmin Rehman, Dr. Mahreen Razaque Bhutto, Makhdoom Muhammad Javed Hashmi, Sardar Mehtab Hamad Khan, Dr. Sumaira Yasir Rashid, Dr. Araish Kumar, Mrs. Kishwar Zehra, Mr. Javed Iqbal Warraich, Mr. Javed Hussian, Khawaja Shiraz Mehmood and Dr. Attiya Inayatullah.

Islamabad, September 29, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Information Technology & Telecommunications Meets

Islamabad, September 16, 2009

Meeting of the Sub-Committee of the Board of Governors of Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS)

MEETING OF THE SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF PAKISTAN INSTITUTE FOR PARLIAMENTARY SERVICES (PIPS)

Islamabad, September 16, 2009: A meeting of the Sub-Committee of the Board of Governors of Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services was held on 16th September, 2009 in the Parliament House under the convenership of Dr. Zaheer-ud-Din Babar Awan, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs to examine and frame rules for recruitment, conditions of service, appointments, leave rules, medical rules and organizational structure of the PIPS.

The Committee offered Fateha for the deceased soul of elder brother of Dr. Zaheer-ud-Din Babar Awan. The convener thanked all the Members for offering Fateha for his elder brother. The Committee thoroughly examined the agenda and were of the view that rules of PIPS must not be framed in haste. The Committee decided that relevant rules of National School of Public Policy, Lahore and National Defence University may be provided to all Members of the Sub-Committee for their consideration and making draft proposals for framing rules for PIPS.

The meeting was attended by Rana Muhammad Iqbal Khan, Speaker Punjab Assembly, Mr. Khushdil Khan Advocate, Deputy Speaker Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Syed Mati Ullah Agha, Deputy Speaker Balochistan Assembly, Senator Dr. Khatu Mal Jeewan, Chaudhary Muhammad Barjees Tahir, MNA, Mr. S.A. Iqbal Qadri, MNA and Mr. Pervaiz Khan Advocate, MNA.

Islamabad, September 15, 2009

NA Sub-Committee on Commerce decides to move Privilege Motion

NA SUB-COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE DECIDES TO MOVE PRIVILEGE MOTION

Islamabad, 15th September, 2009: The Sub-Committee of the Standing Committee on Commerce has decided to move a privilege motion against administration of Pakistan School of Fashion Design (PSFD), Lahore and the officials the M/o Commerce. The decision was made in a meeting held under the convener ship of Mrs. Yasmeen Rehman, MNA in the Parliament House today.

The meeting of the Sub-Committee on Commerce was convened today to scrutinize the affairs of Pakistan School of Fashion Design (PSFD), Lahore and the issue of the non-implementation of findings of the previous Standing Committee. The Members of the Sub-Committee expressed their reservations about the affairs of PSFD and took a serious note of the absence of the administration of PSFD and concerned officials of the M/o Commerce from the meeting and decided unanimously to move privilege motion against the principal of and the administration of the PIFD Lahore and the concerned officials of the ministry of Commerce.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Mrs. Tahira Aurangzeb and Ms. Kashmala Tariq.

Islamabad, September 12, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Minorities Expressed Concern over the Recent Acts of Violence Against Minorities

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON MINORITIES EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER THE RECENT ACTS OF VIOLENCE AGAINST MINORITIES

Islamabad September 12, 2009: The Standing Committee on Minorities expressed its deep concern over the recent acts of violence wherein a number of people belonging to Minorities have lost their lives, kidnapped and harassed by misusing the blasphemy laws. The Committee discussed at length various Articles of the Constitution and decided to formulate its recommendations to be discussed in its next meeting of the Committee. The Committee met under the Chairmanship of Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, MNA in the Parliament House today.

The Committee condemned the recent incident of a burning of a Church in Village Gathi Kay, District Sialkot and constituted a Sub-Committee under the Convenership of Dr. Nelson Azeem to probe into the incident and submit its report to the main Committee. The Committee discussed the blasphemy laws and observed that in most of the cases it has been misused. To review the blasphemy laws, the Committee constituted a Sub- Committee under the Convenership of Ms Nafisa Shah, MNA to formulate its recommendations and report to the Committee.

The Committee also condemned the kidnapping of a Greek National in Chitral and desecration of holy books of Hindu community at Kandh Kot, District Kashmore and decided to call the concerned I.G.Ps to brief the Committee on these issues in its next meeting. Two reports pertaining to the murder of Dilip Kumar in Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Shahi Qilla, Lahore and kidnapping of eight Christian from North Waziristan Agency were also examined and directed the concerned quarters for early arrest of the culprits. 

Earlier, Minister for Minorities informed the Committee about the role of the Ministry in protecting the rights of Minorities and observed that the Standing Committee on Minorities can play a pivotal role in identifying the problems being faced by the Minorities and can also play its role in resolving these issues.. He categorically stated that no one belonging to any religion can desecrate the holy book of any religion rather in most of the cases the blasphemy laws registered against the Minorities due to their personal enmity or to settle their personal vendetta. He urged the need to change the behaviors of the people by involving the media, religious scholars and other stakeholders to promote inter faith harmony in the country. 

Besides Mr. Shahbaz Bhatti, Federal Minister for Minorities, MNAs Dr. Lal Chand, Mrs. Farhat Khan, Malik Mehrunnish Afridi Advocate, Ms.Nafisa Shah, Mr. Ramesh Lal, Dr. Darshan, Dr. Nelson Azim,Dr. Araish Khumar, Dr. Imtiaz Sultan Bukhari, Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Allai, Mr. Akram Masih Gill, Mr. Kishan Chand Parwani, Mrs. Asiya Nasir, Mr. Manwar Lal,, Mrs. Jamila Gillani, and Senior Officers from the Ministry of Minorities also attended the meeting.

Islamabad, September 8, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Youth Affairs Demands to Increase of Budget for the Youth

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON YOUTH AFFAIRS DEMANDS TO INCREASE OF BUDGET FOR THE YOUTH

Islamabad, September 08, 2009: Meeting of National Assembly Standing Committee on Youth Affairs was held in the Parliament House today under the Chairmanship of Sher Muhammad Baloch.

The Committee was given a detail briefing on Youth Policy, International Youth Programme and the criteria of selection of delegation that are send abroad. The Committee expressed its reservations over the selection criteria of the youth for sending abroad. The Committee directed the Ministry to observe the principle of merit and only deserving youth may be selected for such delegations. The Committee also asked the government that the budget of the M/o Youth Affairs may be enhanced. The Committee recommended to hold a National Youth Conference and seminars for inputs and training of the youth.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Ms. Rahela Baloch, Nadeem Ahmed Chan, Dr. Mahreen Razaque Bhutto, Miss Palwasha Khan, Ch. Abid Sher Ali, Dr. Darshan, Sardar Muhammad Irfan Dogar, Dr. Nelson Azeem, Mrs. Imrana Saeed Jamil, and Mrs. Jamila Gillani. Minister for Youth Affairs also attended the meeting as a Ex-officio Member.

Islamabad, August 20, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Women Development Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT MEETS

Islamabad; August 20, 2009: Ms. Bushra Gohar, MNA/chairperson standing Committee on Women Development has said that the status of women in the country can be greatly improved if they are brought into the mainstream decision-making and economic activities. She said this while chairing meeting of the Standing Committee in the Parliament House, today.

Earlier, the President First Women Bank (FWBL) Ms. Shafqat Sultan apprised the committee about the objectives and scope of activities of the FWBL. She informed the committee that the establishment of FWBL was the initiative of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto during her first tenure as PM, for socio-economic empowerment. She said that FWBL has successfully provided necessary assistance to rural and urban women through its micro, small-medium and corporate schemes in making them self-reliant and economically independent. The President FWBL further apprised the Committee that the Bank had established business Development, Computer Literacy and Financial Services Desks which assists women in attaining business management skills, computer skills and resolving their business related issues. She urged the need for routing all the public sector and donor funds allocated or earmarked for women development through FWBL branches so as to make the Bank more vibrant and economically sound.

The Committee appreciated the performance of the Bank despite limited support and uncertainty due to its inclusion on the privatization list. It noted its unique status and importance for women’s economic and social empowerment calling on the government to immediately remove the Bank from the list of privatization and provide the Bank with urgently required Rs. 1 billion to meet its restructuring requirements. The committee suggested that the Bank prepare a 5 year business plan and a gender balance sheet to the committee as soon as possible for further consideration for support. The Bank was advised to extend its network to district and tehsil levels so as to facilitate access of rural women to the bank’s financial services. It was also advised that the Bank recommend women on its board preferably from among those dynamic women entrepreneurs in the country who were able to set their successful businesses with the support of the Bank. Further, the committee recommended that the bank hire only women professionals on executive and managerial positions. The Committee also constituted a 5-member Sub-Committee under the convenership of Mrs. Ishrat Ashraf, MNA to assess in depth the challenges faced by the Bank and make recommendations for its effectiveness. The sub-Committee was asked to complete its deliberations and submit its recommendations within three months.

The Committee also unanimously adopted the report and recommendations of the sub-committee report on the bill “The Protection against Harassment at the Workplace Bill, 2009” after detailed discussion and decided to refer the same to the House for passage.

The Committee renewed its reservations expressed earlier that the Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional reforms does not have representation of women on the committee, the Standing Committee on Women’s Development unanimously resolved for the addition of adequate numbers of women in the Special Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reforms. The members called upon the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chair of the Parliamentary Committee to take immediate steps for women’s inclusion on this important and historic committee.

The Committee later reviewed progress on decisions of the Committee made in its previous meetings. The committee appreciated the steps taken by the Ministry in review of the National Plan of Action and National Policy on Women’s Empowerment. It directed the Ministry to expedite the consultation on and preparation process of CEDAW report and; submit the draft report to the Committee as soon as possible. The committee also asked the Ministry to conduct urgently a third party evaluation of GRAP.

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Mrs. Shakeela Khanam Rashid, Dr. Zil-e-Huma, Ms. Qudsia Arshad, Begum Ishrat Ashraf, Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, Sardar Al-Haaj Muhammad Umar Gorgage, Mrs. Khush Bakht Shujaat, Mrs. Fouzia Ejaz Khan and Secretary MoWD, President FWBL and other officials of the MoWD.

Islamabad, August 13, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Minorities Strongly Condemned the Gojra Incident

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON MINORITIES STRONGLY CONDEMNED THE GOJRA INCIDENT

Islamabad August 13, 2009: The Standing Committee on Minorities passed a unanimous resolution condemning in the strongest words the tragic Gojra incident and demand exemplary punishment to the culprits. It was observed that minority communities in Pakistan respect all religious books and prophets and nobody dare to desecrate the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Holy Quran, however, in most of incidents the miscreants implicate the innocent people in blasphemy cases in order to settle their personal vendettas. The Committee observed that the cases of attacking both Muslim and Minorities in the pretext of blasphemy have increased which is tarnishing the image of the country and urged the need to review such discriminatory laws to protect our society from extremism and to save the image of our country. The Committee met under the Chairmanship of Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, MNA in the Parliament House today and discussed the Gojra incident.

The Committee decided to visit Gojra on 25th of this Month to express solidarity with the Christian community and to monitor the work carried out for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the affected families. It was also decided to keep in constant touch with the Punjab government to keep abreast of the findings of the inquiry as well as others measures to stop such disgraceful incidence in future.

Earlier the Minister for Minorities gave a comprehensive briefing on the steps being taken by the Federal and the Provincial Government of Punjab whereby Rs.200 Million has been earmarked for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the aggrieved families of the Minorities. 

Besides Mr. Shahbaz Bhatti, Federal Minister for Minorities, MNAs Dr. Lal Chand, Ms. Nafisa Shah, Mr. Ramesh Lal, Dr. Araish Khumar, Mrs. Asiya Nasir, Mr. Manwar Lal,Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Allai, Mr. Kishan Chand Parwani and Senior Officers from the Ministry of Minorities also attended the meeting.

Islamabad, July 31, 2009

Two Sub-Committees Constituted for Framing Rules for PIPS

TWO SUB-COMMITTEES CONSTITUTED FOR FRAMING RULES FOR PIPS

Islamabad July 31, 2009: Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza who is also President, Board of Governors of the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS) has constituted two sub-committees for framing rules for recruitment, appointments, formation of organizational structure, accounting procedure and budgeting for the PIPS. The decision to the effect was made in the 1st meeting of the Board of Governors held on 23rd July, 2009. The Committees after framing rules will submit their reports for consideration and approval of the Board of Governors.

The Sub-Committee on Rules of Recruitment, Appointments and Organizational Structure consists of the following members. Dr. Zaheer-ud-Din Babar Awan, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Senator Muhammad Azam Khan Swati, Senator Dr. Khatu Mal Jeewan, MNAs. Syed Zafar Ali Shah, Chaudhary Muhammad Barjees Tahir, S.A. Iqbal Qadri and Pervaiz Khan Advocate.

The Sub-Committee on Accounting Procedure and Budgetary Estimates for the year 2009-10 consists of the following members. Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Senator Syed Tahir Hussain Mashhadi, MNAs. Mrs. Yasmeen Rehman, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Zafar Beg Bhittani and Moulana Muhammad Qasim.

Islamabad, July 25, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence Production Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE PRODUCTION MEETS

Islamabad 25th July, 2009: Sheikh Aftab Ahmad, MNA observed that the Ship Building can become a major export industry which will not only generate foreign exchange but will also create employment opportunities in the country. He said this while chairing the meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence Production held today in the Parliament House, Islamabad wherein the Director General Defence Procurement (DGDP) and MD, Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works gave comprehensive briefings of their respective departments.

The Committee was apprised about the complete procedure of procurement of Defence Products by the Director General Defence Procurement (DGDP) which is functioning in close harmony with the Services Headquarter to procure the required equipments for the three services in an efficient and cost effective manner and updated continuously to keep pace with the changing environment. The Committee appreciated the transparent procurement process of DGDP and emphasized to minimize losses and accrue maximum possible savings in every contract.

While acknowledging the scope of Ship Building Industry in the Country, the Committee assured its all possible support for up-lifting of this industry so that it may compete internationally. The Committee also directed the MD, KSEW to furnish a report containing the problems being faced by them which would be brought into the notice of Prime Minister for its viable solution.

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Mr. Muhammad Moazzam Ali Khan Jatoi, Mr. Sher Muhammad Baloch, Mr. Mazaffar-ul-Mulk, Syed Akhunzada Chitan, Mr. Azeem Daultana, Sahibzada Muhammad Fazal-e-Karim, Mr. Naseer Bhutta, Khawaja Sheeraz Mehmood, Mrs. Fouzia Ejaz Khan, and Senior Officers from the Ministry of Defence were also present in the meeting.

Islamabad, July 17, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Youth Calls for Mobilizing Youth to Help IDPs for their Rehabilitation

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON YOUTH CALLS FOR MOBILIZING YOUTH TO HELP IDPs FOR THEIR REHABILITATION

Islamabad July 17, 2009: Mr. Sher Mohammad Baloch, Chairman NA Standing Committee on Youth Affairs has called upon the Ministry of Youth Affairs (MoYA) to mobilize youth through National Volunteer Movement (NVM) to help internally displaced person (IDPs) for their rehabilitation in their native areas. He said youth can play a vital role in supplementing the efforts of the government. He this while chairing meeting of the Standing Committee on Youth Affairs in Parliament House, today.

The Chairman asked the Ministry to further strengthen the National Volunteer Movement and provide trainings to the volunteers so that they can amicably assist the disaster and calamites stricken people. He appreciated the role of volunteers in relief operations after earthquake in year 2005 and recent IDPs crises. The Committee suggested that volunteers should be registered at district level so that their services could be utilized as and when required.

Later, the Secretary MoYA briefed the committee about the programs and projects of the Ministry. He informed the Committee that Ministry was responsible for devising policies and coordination of youth related activities in conformity with national objectives & laws and international obligations and legislations covering all aspects of youth affairs, international, regional and provincial coordination for youth affairs. He said that despite meager budgetary allocation during previous financial year, Ministry has successfully conducted various youth exchange programs with China, Malaysia and SAARC countries. He further said that Ministry also successfully conducted See Pakistan National Youth Camps in Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, NWFP, AJ&K and Northern Areas which provided the youth with an opportunity to interact with their fellow countrymen and foster national unity. He also apprised the committee about the National Internship Program and construction of Youth Centers in the country.

The Committee suggested that Ministry should pay focus on the National Internship Program (NIP) and give internships to youth especially from Balochistan, FATA and other backward areas. The committee also suggested for devising a monitoring system of NIP so that desired results could be achieved. It was also suggested that instead of establishing Youth Centers in big cities, they should be established in far-flung and less developed districts of the country for facilitating the youth of those areas.

The Chairman in his closing remarks said that enough damage has been caused to our youth by misleading literature and inculcating biased ideas in their minds making them intolerant towards democratic values. He called for a cohesive and well coordinated strategy devised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs taking on board the provinces, FATA Administration all stake holders to address the current problems.

The meeting was attended by Mr. Shahid Hussain Bhutto, Minister for Youth Affairs, MNAs Ms. Rahela Baloch, Mr. Nadeem Afzal Chan, Dr. Mahreen Razaque Bhutto, Dr. Nelson Azeem, Mrs. Imrana Saeed Jamil, Secretary and other senior officers of the MoYA.

Islamabad, July 16, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Investment Elect Its Chairman

N.A STANDING COMMITTEE ON INVESTMENT ELECT ITS CHAIRMAN

Islamabad July 16, 2009: Dr. Ghulam Haider Samejo, MNA has unanimously been elected Chairman of Standing Committee on Investment in meeting of the Committee held in Parliament Hosue, today.

Secretary National Assembly Mr. Karamat Hussian Niazi conducted the election. The name of Dr. Ghulam Haider Samejo was proposed by Dr. Talat Mahesar, MNA and seconded by Mr. Muhammad Ijaz Virk Advocate, MNA.

The Secretary National Assembly congratulated the Chairman on the behalf of Madam Speaker and Acting Speaker National Assembly and assured him their allout support.

The meeting was attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmad Shah, Minister for Labour & Manpower/Chief Whip, Senator Waqar Ahmad Khan, Minister for Investment, MNAs Mr. Muhamamd Ijaz Virk Advocate, Dr. Talat Mahesar and Miss Tasneem Siddiqui

Islamabad, July 4, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad July 4, 2009: The Standing Committee on Defence stressed that DHA may ensure transparency in utilization of funds and also involve its residents while levying taxes or increasing the existing charges to avoid resentments amongst them. The Committee met under the Chairpersonship of Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, MNA today in the Parliament House, Islamabad while discussing the imposition of refurbishment charges by the Defence Housing Authority (DHA).

The Committee after conceding the problems being faced by the residents of DHA, Karachi and levying of unjust taxes like Refurbishment Charges by the Administration of DHA, decided to constitute three members Sub-Committee headed by Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan, MNA. The Sub-Committee will submit its report to the main Committee suggesting amendments in the Act governing the Cantonment Boards and the By-Laws of DHA.

Earlier, the Administrator, Defence Housing Authority briefed that DHA is providing all possible facilities like development of land, maintenance of roads, drainage system etc. to maintain the modern standards of life on the alacrity of its residents. He informed that the unprecedented rains in 2007 paralyzed the civic life and flooded almost all major parts of Karachi including DHA which necessitated undertaking the up-gradation and refurbishment work on the persistent demands of its residents so as to maintain the quality living standards there. He apprised that DHA was facing huge deficit, therefore, refurbishment charges was levied on the residents, later pended on demand of Resident’s Association which would be re-considered by taking all the stake-holders on board.

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Dr. Abdul Wahid Soomro, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, Capt. (R)Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Kharral, Mr. Ayaz Amir, Syed Haider Ali Shah, Shaikh Rohale Asghar, Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan and Mr. Jawad Hussain and senior officers from the M/o Defence were also present in the meeting.

Islamabad, July 4, 2009

6th General Assembly of the Women Parliamentary Caucus Held

6TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE WOMEN PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS HELD

Islamabad July 4, 2009: The Sixth General Assembly of the Women Parliamentary Caucus was held in the Parliament House today with Ms. Nafisa Shah, Secretary General (WPC) in the chair. Ms. Navamanee Ratna Patten, Regional Expert on CEDAW (Mauritius) and Member of the United Nations CEDAW Committee also attended the General Assembly as a special invitee.

Ms. Navamanee Ratna Patten apprised the WPC about the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). She said that CEDAW Committee was an expert body established in 1982, composed of 23 experts on women's issues from around the world with a specific mandate to oversee the progress for women made in those countries that are the States parties to the 1979 Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. She said that it becomes legally obligatory for a country when it ratifies or accedes to the Convention to counteract discrimination against women. The Committee comprehensively monitors the implementation of national measures to fulfill those obligations and point out shortcomings on part of the governments.

She said that the Committee reviews national reports submitted by the States parties within one year of ratification or accession, and thereafter every four years in its each session. These reports, which cover national action taken to improve the status of women, are presented to the Committee by Government representatives. In discussions with these officials, the CEDAW experts comment on the report and obtain additional information. This procedure of actual dialogue, developed by the Committee, has proven valuable because it allows for an exchange of views and a clearer analysis of anti-discrimination policies in the various countries. She said that last session of the CEDAW Committee deliberated for evolving the role of parliamentarians in the gender specific issues. The committee recommended that the CEDAW Report should be placed before the parliament prior to submitting it to the UN. She also suggested for inclusion of parliamentarians, representatives private sector organization, NGOs and stakeholders in the government delegation to CEDAW Committee.

Ms. Nafisa Shah in her remarks said that establishment of WPC a giant leap towards achieving the goal of women emancipation and protection of women rights in wake of the growing challenges towards women empowerment and massive women rights violation. She credited Speaker National Assembly for her efforts for setting up WPC which comprises of all the women parliamentarians in the Senate and National Assembly above their party affiliations. She agreed with Ms. Navamanee Ratna Patten for dilating upon the CEDAW Report in the parliament before submitting it to UN.

The Members of the WPC also expressed their views on the women specific issues and stressed for gender sensitization and gender budgeting for achieving the long-term objectives of the women empowerment and protection of their rights. They suggested for involvement of women parliamentarians in the preparation of CEDAW repots for political ownership. A large number of Women Parliamentarians attended the General Assembly of WPC.

Islamabad, June 29, 2009

2-N.A Standing Committees Elect their Chairmen

2-N.A STANDING COMMITTEES ELECT THEIR CHAIRMEN

Islamabad June 29, 2009: Meetings of the National Assembly Standing Committees on Human Rights and Postal Services were held in Parliament House, today for election of their Chairmen.

Mr. Riaz Hussain Fatyana and Pir Muhammad Aslam Bodla were unanimously elected Chairmen of Standing Committees on Human Rights and Postal Services, respectively.

Secretary National Assembly Mr. Karamat Hussian Niazi conducted the elections. He congratulated both the chairmen on the behalf of Madam Speaker and Deputy Speaker National Assembly.

Islamabad, June 29, 2009

Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reforms unanimously elected Senator Mian Raza Rabbani as Chairman

PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS UNANIMOUSLY ELECTED SENATOR MIAN RAZA RABBANI AS CHAIRMAN

Islamabad June 29, 2009: Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reforms unanimously elected Senator Mian Raza Rabbani as chairman of the committee in its first meeting held here today. The meeting was chaired by Senator Mian Raza Rabbani.

The meeting also adopted draft rules of procedure for the Constitutional Reforms Committee with consensus.

The meeting decided to solicit opinion and proposals of public in general, civil society, Pakistan Bar Council and Provincial Bar Councils regarding COD, 17th amendment and provincial autonomy for the benefit of the committee’s work. It was decided that such proposals can be submitted to the office of the Chairman of the Committee in the Parliament House till August 01, 2009.

The next meeting of the committee will be held on July 28, 2009.

The meeting was attended by Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Privatization, Rehmatullah Kakar, Minister for Housing & Works, MNAs Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan, Hamayun Saifullah, Syed Haider Abbas Rizvi, Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, Ch. Ahsan Iqbal, Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao, Munir Khan Orakzai, Senators. Nawabzada Mir Haji Lashkari Raisani, Muhammad Ishaq Dar, S.M.Zafar, Afrasiab Khattak, Justice ® Abdul Razzaq A. Thahim, Mir Israr Ullah Zehri, Prof. Muhammad Ibrahim, Abdul Rahim Khan Mandokhel and Shahid Hassan Bugti.

Islamabad, June 25, 2009

Special Committee of the Parliament on Constitutional Reforms meets

SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE PARLIAMENT ON CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS MEETS

Islamabad; June 25, 2009: A meeting of the Special Committee of the Parliament on Constitutional Reforms was held in the Parliament House today. Madam Speaker NA chaired the meeting.

The meeting decided that Senator Raza Rabbani would be the convener of the committee till the election of its chairman by the committee members. It was also decided the committee will make its terms of reference in light of the resolutions passed by the parliament. It was decided that the next meeting of the committee will be held on 29th June (Monday) at 11:00 a.m in the Parliament House. Members of the committee extended complements to the Madam Speaker for the constitution and announcing the committee and termed it an historical event. People were pinning hopes on the committee and it was imperative to come up to the expectations of the masses the members said.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Zaheer Uddin Babar Awan, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Raja Pervez Ashraf, Minister for Water & Power, Rehmatullah Kakar, Minister for Housing & Works, Dr. Farooque Sattar, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Privatization, MNAs. Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao, Ch. Ahsan Iqbal, Hamayun Saifullah Khan, Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan, Munir Khan Orakzai and Syed Haider Abbas Rizvi, Senators. Mian Raza Rabbani, Abdul Rahim Khan Mandokhel, Shahid Hassan Bugti, S.M Zafar, Ishaq Dar and Haji Muhammad Adeel.

Islamabad, June 11, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad June 11, 2009: The Standing Committee on Defence has unanimously supported the ongoing Military Operation in Swat and Malakand agency and stressed that the operation should be focused, short termed and result oriented. The committee also urged the need to form a National Security Policy taking on board all the stakeholders to effectively counter the spate of extremism and terrorism in the country. The Committee met under the chairpersonship of Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, MNA in the Parliament House, today.

The Secretary Defence and Director (Military Operations) briefed the committee about the ongoing “Rahe-e-Rast” Military Operation in Swat and Malakand and the counter terrorism measures. He informed the Committee that the anti-state activities of the militants, paralyzed the political and civil administration and challenged the writ of the government, necessitated the military action against the miscreants. However, before the initiation of military operation against the militants, the government had tried its utmost to resolve the issues through dialogue and accepted the popular demand of the people of the area by introducing Nizam-e-Adal regulations.

He further apprised that the ongoing military operation has been focused on eliminating militants from the area with minimum collateral damage to the public and infrastructure. He said that the military action has won the public support and has restored their confidence.

The committee extended its all out support to the armed forces for achieving the objectives of military operation. The Committee also recommended that Ministries of Religious Affairs, Information and Education, intellectuals and religious scholars may be involved to counter negative propaganda by Militants against the state and tarnishing the image of Islam.

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Dr. Talat Mahesar, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, Mir Amir Ali Khan Magsi, Sardar Talib Hassan Nakai, Syed Haider Ali Shah, Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur, Shaikh Rohale Asghar, Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan and Mr. Jawad Hussain.

Islamabad, June 11, 2009

Women Parliamentarians Visit IDPs Camp at Swabi

WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS VISIT IDPs CAMP AT SWABI

Islamabad June 11, 2009: A Group of ten women parliamentarians visited the Field Hospital at Mansoor Camp in Swabi, today. The hospital is run by volunteer doctors, supported by the Ayum Medical College and is being patronized by Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza. The Administrator of the Field Hospital briefed the parliamentarians about the Medical Facilities there. He told that the facilities include latest machinery and specialists to cater the medical requirements of the IDPs. The parliamentarians also met patients under treatment in the Field Hospital. They handed over a truck of Medicines to the administration of the Field Hospital.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Nafeesa Shah, who was heading the visiting parliamentarian group and is also the Secretary General, Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) said that the government was fully aware of the plight of the Internally displaced persons of Swat and Malakand Division and was paying focus on ensuring speedy and adequate relief and medical response to them. She said that this mass displacement of people was a human catastrophe and the largest movement of people since partition of Pakistan in 1947. She said that the sole purpose of the visit of Members of the WPC was to express solidarity and show their obligation towards their internally displaced brethren residing in Camps. The Group also handed over the monthly donation of Rs. 10,000 for baby Aman and her mother on the behalf of Madam Speaker.

The administration of the Shah Mansoor Town IDPs Camp briefed the parliamentarians about the relief arrangements made at the Camp. They were apprised that the said camp accommodates 20500 IDPs. They were briefed about the elaborate arrangements made for the accommodation of IDPs, education of their children, food and medical care. The parliamentarians expressed their satisfaction over the arrangements, however, asked to further enhance the healthcare facilities and sanitation arrangements since ensuing monsoon season might cause serious health related problems for IDPs. They also asked for carrying out a campaign to create awareness of personal health and hygiene among the IDPs at the camp besides providing counseling services to the physiologically traumatized people.

The women parliamentarians later interacted with the IDPs and assured them that they would be able to return to their homes soon and till their stay in Camps, they would be provided all the all necessary items, medical care and educational facilities for their children. They also distributed goods to the displaced people which included eatables, clothes, water coolers and other household items. 

The members of WPC who visited the Camp were Ms. Nafeesa shah, Secretary General (WPC), Mrs. Tahira aurangzeb, Mrs. Khursheed Khanum, Mrs. Nighta Mir, Mrs. Farahnaz Isphani, Mrs. Khalida Mansoor, Mrs. Shahnaz Saleem, Mrs. Shaheen Ashfaq, Mrs. Parveen Maqsood Bhatti and Malik Mehrunnisa Afridi.

Islamabad, June 6, 2009

Women Parliamentarians Visit IDPs Camp at Mardan

WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS VISIT IDPs CAMP AT MARDAN

Islamabad June 6, 2009: Ms. Nafeesa Shah, General Secretary of the Women Parliamentarians Caucus (WPC) has said that displacement of the People from Swat, Buner and Malakand Division was a human catastrophe and their displacement from their homes have traumatized them and aggravated their sufferings. She said that government was fully cognizant of their plight and was trying to provide them shelter, food, medicine and other good with indigenous resources as well as with the assistance of friendly countries, Philanthropist organizations and individuals. She said this while talking to the IDPs at a Camp established in Government Higher Secondary School, Shah Dan, Mardan by National Commission for Human Development (NCHD). Other Members of WPC including Mrs. Jamila Gillani, Dr. Mehreen Bhutto, Mrs. Farhat Khan and Mrs. Nuzhat Sadiq also accompanied her.

She said that the government was committed to provide relief and rehabilitation of the displaced persons and would take all possible measures in that regard. She said that the country was facing the menace of terrorism and extremism and was making all possible measures to establish the writ of the government. She appreciated the unprecedented response from the international community, armed forces and people of Pakistan in the hour of crisis. She appealed to the affluent people, philanthropists, NGOs and the world community to come forward and help the IDPs regarding their relief and rehabilitation.

The Officials of NCHD briefed the parliamentarians about the relief arrangements made at the Camps. They were apprised that 850 IDPs comprising 162 families were residing in Shah Dan Camp, Mardan where arrangements have been made for their accommodation, education, food and medical care.

The parliamentarians later interacted with the IDPs and said that they have visited the IDPs to express solidarity with them and to assure them that they were not alone in the time of distress. They assured them that they would be able to return to their homes soon and till their stay in Camps, they would be provided all the all necessary items, medical care and educational facilities for the children. They also met the patients in the dispensary established in the Camp.

The parliamentarians later distributed goods to the displaced people which included Medicines, eatables, clothes, water coolers and other household items. They also donated a substantial amount for the food prepared for the IDPs at the Camp.

Islamabad, June 2, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad June 2, 2009: Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Chairperson Standing Committee on Defence has directed the M/o Interior to issue a white paper highlighting the facts and figures of the Swat operation and implication of the war on terror in order to assess the fallout of those policies. She said that it would help the government to review and intensify the future strategy for dealing with the menace of terrorism and extremism. She said this while chairing a meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence in Parliament House, this morning.

The Committee was given a comprehensive briefing on the Counter Terrorism Policy of the government. The Secretary M/o Interior while apprising the committee said that the present democratic government was full cognizant of the destructive effects of terrorism and extremism and had adopted a comprehensive strategy taking on board all the stakeholders. The strategy includes dialogue with tribal elders, development of infrastructure and creating deterrence against anti-state elements. He further apprised that in order to effectively deal with the situation, amendments in the Anti-Terrorism Act had been proposed, militant outfits had been proscribed, new counter terrorism structure has been established besides introduction of stringent immigrations control measures to stop the illegal immigrants into the country. He further said that government has introduced madrasa reforms so as to bring the madrasas into the mainstream by revising its curricula.

The Committee appreciated the counter terrorism efforts of the government and asked to further intensify the security in other parts of the country as well. The committee asked to create employment opportunities for the unemployed youth in the FATA and other affected districts of the NWFP so that the militants may not engage unemployed youth on handsome wages to fight against the security agencies. The Committee asked the Ministry of Defence to make arrangements to airlift the stranded people in the Kurrum Agency and deploy armed personnel along with the Peshawar-Parachinar road so that the people could travel by road safely.

The Committee also expressed their solidarity with the families of the Shaheed Jawans and Officers of Armed Forces who have sacrificed their lives while discharging their duties during the War against Terrorism and expressed solidarity with the internally displaced persons(IDPs) hoping for early repatriation to their homes.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Dr. Talat Mahesar, Syed Haider Ali Shah, Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan, Capt (R) Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Kharral, Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, Sardar Talib Hassan Nakai, Dr. Abdul Wahid Soomro, Mr. Jawad Hussain, Mir Ameer Ali Khan Magsi, Secretary M/o Interior and other officers of the concerned departments.

Islamabad, May 30, 2009

NA Standing Committee on States and Frontier Regions meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON STATES AND FRONTIER REGIONS MEETS

Islamabad May 29, 2009: Standing Committee on States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) met under the chairmanship of Mr. Sajid Hussain Turi, MNA in the Parliament House this morning wherein the representatives of Ministries of SAFRON, Interior and Defence gave comprehensive briefing on the overall law & order situation in FATA specifically the blockage of main road from Peshawar to Parachinar.

The Committee after thorough discussion on the issue recommended to immediately deploy the Armed Forces along side the road from Peshawar to Parachinar to ensure safety of the travelers. The Committee urged the need to give service structure to the Khasadars/Levies working in FATA/PATA, increase their salaries, equip them to cope with the anti-state activities of the miscreants and make further recruitments from the local residents. The Committee directed the M/o Defence to explore all possible means including provision of Air Service to the people of Kurram Agency till the complete normalcy of the law & order situation in the area. It was stressed that the local public representative should be taken into confidence while initiating any military operation in that area.

While discussing the problems of IDPs, the Committee recommended that the relief package announced for the IDPs of Swat may be extended to the people of FATA as well. It was directed that IDPs may not be forcefully repatriated as long as the situation of their respective areas returns to normal. The Committee expressed its concern over the poor distribution arrangements of the Benazir Income Support Programme Forms in the FATA by the Pakistan Postal Services and recommended to ensure the proper distribution of the Forms.

The Committee also voiced its concern over the fake registration of Afghan Refugees as most of them are involved in criminal activities and decided to constitute a Sub-Committee to probe into the problems arising out of their presence in the Country and to look into the progress of their repatriation.

The Committee also offered Fatiha for the departed souls of Jawans and Officers of Armed Forces who have sacrificed their lives while discharging their duties during the War against Terrorism, the victims of recent blasts in different parts of the country and expressed solidarity with the internally displaced persons(IDPs) hoping for their early repatriation to their homes

The meeting was attended by Mr. Najam-ud-Din Khan, Minister for SAFRON and MNAs Mr. Shaukatullah, Mr. Javed Iqbal Warriach, Engineer Muhammad Tariq Khattak, Syed Asif Hasnain, Mr. Pervaiz Khan Advocate, Mr. Noor Alam Khan, Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi, Mr. Faiz Muhammad Khan, Mir Ahmadan Khan Bugti. Senior Officers from the Ministries of Defence, Interior, SAFRON, Afghan Commission and FATA Secretariat were also present in the meeting.

Islamabad, May 25, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Interior meets

Islamabad, May 25, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Law & Justice meets

Islamabad, May 23, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad May 23, 2009: Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Chairperson while acknowledging the importance of the Standing Committee on Defence observed that the Committee would work as a bridge between our Defence Forces and the Parliament. She made this observation while chairing the meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence held today in the Parliament House, Islamabad.

The Committee chalked-out tentative schedule of the meetings to be held in the forthcoming months. It was agreed to have briefing on the counter-terrorism policy of the Government in the Joint Staff Headquarter on the 2nd & 3rd June, 2009 focusing on its objectives, the progress made so far and its long term impacts on our country. The Committee would also have briefings from all the wings of our Armed Forces besides discussing the overall functioning of PIAC in July, 2009. The Committee decided to launch its Website containing to its the functioning of the Committee so that the public may also know about its activities. 

The Committee also offered Fatiha for the departed souls of Jawans and Officers of Armed Forces who have sacrificed their lives while discharging their duties during the War against Terrorism and expressed solidarity with the internally displaced persons(IDPs) hoping for early repatriation to their homes.

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Dr. Talat Mahesar, Syed Haider Ali Shah, Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan, Mr. Bilal Ahmad Virk, Begum Ishrat Ashraf, Mrs. Shagufta Sadiq, Sardar Talib Hassan Nakai, Dr. Abdul Wahid Soomro and Mr. Jawad Hussain.

Islamabad, May, 21, 2009

Commerce Committee Probes Afghan Trade MOU, Summons Minister

COMMERCE COMMITTEE PROBES AFGHAN TRADE MOU, SUMMONS MINISTER

Islamabad, 21 May, 2009: There are grave concerns whether the government considered fully Pakistan security and economic interests vis-a-vis India before signing the MoU on Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTA) in Washington. The Commerce Committee also seeks answers on the location, modality, timing, and authorship of APTA. We have summoned the Federal Minister for Commerce to respond to these policy issues. This was stated by Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan MNA while chairing a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce held in Parliament House today.

The Committee held a preliminary discussion on APTA and recommended that the Ministry of Commerce should devise the agreement keeping in view the interest of the country industry, employment, and trade patterns. Moreover, all ambiguities in the MOU may also be clarified as the agreement will be of great significance in future, especially in terms of trade with Central Asian Republics.

The Committee asked the Ministry to submit copies of the draft APTA submitted by Government of Afghanistan in November 2008 and recommended that the Ministry should take into confidence all stakeholders in the process of finalizing APTA.

The Committee took very serious notice of plunging balance of trade between Pakistan and India since 2004. During a detailed discussion on bilateral Indo-Pak trade, the Committee observed that India’s grant of most favored nation (MFN) status to Pakistan was pro forma and in fact India still deliberately and actively restricted Pakistani products through non-tariff barriers. The Committee directed that measures be taken to balance the deficit.

The Committee reviewed the Ministry of Commerce budget 2008-09 and expressed dismay that the Ministry was spending nearly one billion rupees of public money annually on its trade missions abroad but there was no significant, measurable output. The Committee examined the Export Development Fund allocation item-by-item and directed the Ministry to submit details of certain grants. The Committee also directed Ministry to submit details of grants under Export Marketing Development Fund (EMDF) made by Trade Development Authority.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Ch. Iftikhar Nazir, Nawab Abdul Ghani Talpur, Mr. Aamir Yar Warn, Mr. Nauman Islam Sheikh, Mr. Liaqat Ali Khan, Mrs. Tahira Aurangzeb, Haji Muhammad Akram Ansari, Ms. Shireen Arshad Khan, Hamid Yar Hiraj, Mrs. Kashmala Tariq, Arbab Zakaullah, and Mrs. Jamila Gillani.

Islamabad, May 14, 2009

Commerce Committee Unearths Misappropriation of Millions in TCP

COMMERCE COMMITTEE UNEARTHS MISAPPROPRIATION OF MILLIONS IN TCP

Islamabad, 14 May 2009: Trading Corporation of Pakistan is operating under a dark cloud of corruption and illegal behavior. The Ministry of Commerce and TCP collude to hide wrongdoing and criminals roam free. We will expose graft at every level. Those responsible must be identified and punished in order to ensure that every rupee of public exchequer is spent with integrity and efficiency This was stated by Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan MNA while chairing the National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce, which met in Parliament House today.

The Committee ordered Chairman TCP to immediately submit investigative findings on reports of: (1) large-scale theft and mixing of sand with sugar in TCP Pipri godowns near Karachi; (2) repeat burning of cotton bales worth Rs. 490 million at Rahimyar Khan; (3) purchase of rice at grossly inflated prices last season; (4) serious allegations of bribery demanded by TCP employees in recent purchase of cotton; (5) payment of $8.5 million demurrage to shippers due to incompetent TCP scheduling; (6) inflated transportation contracts of wheat awarded to ruling party favorites in 2008; and (7) irregularity in award of contract for renovation and rehabilitation of Pipri godwons.

Many committee members expressed serious concerns that process of award of contract was shady and beset with cartels formed by contractors. The Committee recommended strongly to TCP to abolish pre-qualification of contractors and award contracts through open bidding. Late decisions by the government and Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet also came under severe criticism. Members felt that delay in decisions to import commodities distorted prices and benefited neither growers nor consumers.

The Committee noted with dismay the absence of both the Federal Minister for Commerce and Secretary Commerce. We wanted to inquire about the recently signed MOU with Afghanistan on transit trade and possible concession to India, but both the Minister and Secretary are absent, said the Chairman. MNAs Mr. Liaqat Ali Khan, Ms. Yasmeen Rahman, Ch. Iftikhar Nazir, Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb, Haji Akram Ansari, Ms. Shireen Khan, Mr. Iqbal M. Ali Khan, and Ms. Jamila Gillani attended the meeting.

Islamabad, May 13,2009

3-NA Standing Committees Elect their Chairmen

3-N.A STANDING COMMITTEES ELECT THEIR CHAIRMEN
ACTING PRESIDENT AND ACTING SPEAKER CONGRATULATE NEWLY ELECTED CHAIRMEN

Islamabad May 13, 2009: Meetings of the National Assembly Standing Committees on Youth Affairs, Economic Affairs & Statistics and Sports were held in Parliament House, today for election of their Chairmen.

Mr, Sher Muhammad Baloch, Malik Azmat Khan and Mr. Jamshaid Ahmed Dasti unanimously elected Chairpmen of Standing Committees on Youth Affairs, Economic Affairs & Statistics and Sports, respectively.

Secretary National Assembly Mr. Karamat Hussian Niazi conducted the elections of the Standing Committees.

The Chairmen after their unanimous election thanked their fellow parliamentarians in reposing confidence in them by electing them as Chairmen. They assured them that with concerted efforts, they would make the Committees useful, effective and purposeful. All the members of the Committees congratulated the newly elected Chairmen and assured their cooperation for the smooth functioning of the Standing Committees.

Secretary National Assembly on behalf of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Acting President and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly congratulated Mr, Sher Muhammad Baloch, Malik Azmat Khan and Mr. Jamshaid Ahmed Dasti on their election as Chairmen of the Standing Committees.

The meetings were attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmad Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower/Chief Whip and Members of the respective Standing Committees.

Islamabad, May 11, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Interior meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON INTERIOR MEETS

Islamabad May 11, 2009: The Standing Committee on Interior has constituted a 3-member Sub-Committee under the convenership of Mr. Muhammad Ijaz Virk, MNA to look into the reported irregularities in the issuance of non prohibited bore Arms licenses by the Ministry of Interior. The Committee has also been mandated to suggest measures to streamline the procedure for issuance of new licenses and clear the backlog pending with the Ministry of Interior. The Committee met under the chairmanship of Mr. Abdul Qadir Patel, MNA in Parliament House, this afternoon.

The Committee took this decision on various complaints received from parliamentarians and general public on the inordinate delay in issuance of license by the Ministry despite fulfilling all the procedural requirements. It was brought into the notice of the Committee that a huge number of applications were pending with the Ministry and said backlog had accumulated since last one and half year due to inefficiency of concerned staff and reported malpractices. The sub-committee has been asked to submit its findings within a month to the main committee.

The committee while discussing the general law and order situation in the country asked the M/o Interior to intensify the pace of registration of aliens illegally residing in the country under the Aliens Registration Law. The Members of the committee pointed out those aliens of various nationalities were residing in different parts of the country without proper permission who have been involved in mischief and other activities detrimental to the interests of Pakistan. They were of the view that such registration would help the government in keeping a track of those people in wake of the recent law and order threat in the country. They also asked for intensifying the pace of repatriation of Afghan refugees to their homeland.

Earlier, the Director General (FIA) briefed the committee about the organizational framework of the Agency and its mandate. The D.G apprised the committee that after the emergence security threats, presently faced by the country, the FIA has been strengthened and equipped. He said that FIA had been made the focal point for coordinating all activities with Interpol besides countering anti-human trafficking, illegal immigration, cyber crimes, enforcing Intellectual Property rights, controlling production of spurious drugs and anti-corruption investigations. He said that FIA would prove it to be a professional, impartial and upright organization and would continue to keep its integrity unquestionable.

The Committee commended the performance of the FIA, however, asked to further intensify the monitoring of exit and entry points in Pakistan for checking illegal immigration, human trafficking and other sophisticated crimes. The Chairman of the committee also asked the FIA to check the adulteration and production of substandard consumable item in collaboration with Pakistan standards and Quality control authority.

The Committee decided to summon Inspector General of Police (Punjab) and DIGs of four police circles of Karachi in its next to get briefing on the law and order situation in Punjab and Karachi with particular reference to the killing of innocent citizens in Karachi in April, 2009.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Mr. Roshan-u-Din Junejo, Mr. Nazir Ahmad Bughio, Ch. Mehmood Bashir Virk, MR. Mohammad Afzal Khokar, Sahibzada syed Murtaza Amin, Sardar Bahadur Ahmad Khan Sehair, Sardar Mohammad Israr Tareen, Mr. Wasim Akthar, Ms. Bushra Gohar, Secretary M/o Interior, D.G (FIA), D.G (National Police Bureau), Inspector General of Police (NWFP) and other officers of the concerned departments.

Islamabad, May 4, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Minorities meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON MINORITIES MEETS

Islamabad May 4, 2009: Standing Committee on Minorities met under the chairmanship of Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, MNA in the Parliament House to discuss the working of the Ministry of Minorities and its attached Departments.

The Committee expressed its grave concern over the law and order situation in the country specifically the displacement of families belonging to the Minorities from different parts of NWFP and FATA and stressed that the Ministry may take stringent measures for their immediate rehabilitation. It was urged that the Ministry may provide basic facilities including shelters, food, health and financial assistance to the displaced families of the Minorities. The Ministry should also make alternate arrangements for the examinations of students who were unable to appear in exams in their affected areas so that the precious year of these students could be saved. The Committee expressed its reservations over the performance of National Commission for Minorities and observed that since its establishment, the Commission has not been able to protect and safeguard religious, social and cultural rights of the Minorities. The Committee stressed that Media should highlight the problems being faced by the Minorities. The Committee appreciated the decision of the Government for enhancing the employment quota for Minorities up to 5%.

Mr. Shahbaz Bhatti, Federal Minister for Minorities while responding to the queries raised by the Hon. Members assured that the Government is taking every possible step to safeguard the rights of Minorities as enshrined in the constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Earlier, Mr. Abdul Ghaffar Soomro, Secretary, M/o Minorities briefed the Committee in detail about the overall performance of the Ministry. The Committee was also briefed about the functioning of Evacuee Trust Property Board. 

Besides Mr. Shahbaz Bhatti, Federal Minister for Minorities the MNAs Dr. Lal Chand, Mrs. Farhat Khan, Mr. Ramesh Lal, Dr. Darshan, Dr. Nelson Azeem, Mr. Akram Masih Gill, Mr. Kishan Chand Parwani, Mrs. Jamila Gilani, Mrs. Asiya Nasir, Dr. Imtiaz Sultan Bukhari, Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Allai and Senior Officers from the Ministry of Minorities and Evacuee Trust Property Board also attended the Meeting.

Islamabad, April 28, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Women Development Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON WOMEN DEVELOPMENT MEETS

Islamabad, April 28, 2009: Meeting of the Standing Committee on Women Development, chaired by Ms. Bushra Gohar was held in the Parliament House, today. The meeting reviewed the 1st draft report on Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence against Women (CEDAW). The Committee expressed dissatisfaction over the process and content of the report and directed the Ministry of Women Development to constitute a working group consisting of key stakeholders including representatives of the NA Standing Committee on Women Development, MOWD, NCSW, Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Interior and members of Women Rights organizations with a week. The chair of the NCSW who was invited to the meeting on special invitation offered to facilitate the meetings of the working group after it is notified by the MOWD.

Recognizing the challenges faced by MOWD in the implementation and reporting of CEDAW, the members also directed the Secretary MOWD to present a proposal to the committee in its next meeting on how the CEDAW implementation process could be effectively institutionalized and what levels of support the Ministry would require in this regard. The members highlighted the need for rigorous oversight of the CEDAW implementation process.

The Committee noted with concern the deteriorating security situation in the country and the inability to protect human rights especially of women and children in the affected areas. They condemned growing militancy and extremism especially in Pakhtunkhwa and FATA resulting in serious human rights abuses, which have mainly affected women and children. The Committee noted the absence of women especially women parliamentarians and women rights activists in the peace negotiation and consultation process and demanded that Government takes special measures for ensuring women are actively involved in all peace consultation and decision making at all levels.

The Committee also expressed concerns over the lack of adequate facilities and outreach for the huge numbers of families displaced due to militancy. The Committee asked the Government to give an urgent update to the Committee on the prevailing security challenges and IDPs situation in the country and what efforts are underway to protect the local population from human rights violation especially women and children. The Committee also directed the Government to constitute an independent commission headed by an ex-judge of the Supreme Court to review the civilian casualties and human rights violations. The government must also ensure adequate compensation and rehabilitation of the IDPs and ensure reconstruction and development of the affected areas.

Finally, the Committee decided that the Sub-Committee constituted earlier for reviewing the domestic violence bill 2009 will continue to review other pending bills referred to the committee by the National Assembly. 

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Mrs. Shakeela Khanam Rashid, Dr. Zil-e-Huma, Ms. Qudsia Arshad, Mrs. Nisar Tanveer, Miss Shaheen Ishfaq and Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, officials of the MOWD. Chair National Commission on the Status of Women, Members of women rights organizations focusing on CEDAW implementation attended the meeting on special invitation.

Islamabad, April 28, 2009

NA Standing Committee on Defence Meets

NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE MEETS

Islamabad April 28, 2009: Capt. (R) Rai Ghulam Mujtaba Kharal, MNA observed that Pakistan is an ideological welfare state guided by the percept of Justice, equality, peace and tolerance. It does not harbour aggressive designs or territorial ambitions against any country and favours peaceful settlement of international disputes. He made this observation while chairing the meeting of the Standing Committee on Defence held today in the Parliament House for briefing to the Committee in the absence of Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Chairperson of the said.

The Committee appreciated the overall briefing of the Ministry of Defence however, expressed its dissatisfaction over the security risks on almost all the Airports of the Country and recommended that highly professional trainings may be imparted for the capacity building of the ASF personnel to combat the challenging security hazard in the prevailing scenario. The Committee desired that a detailed briefing may be given to the Committee on the counter terrorism policy of the Government and the current status of Kashmir, Siachin and Sir Creek. It was agreed that the Committee would be updated on these issues in its next meeting to be held in mid of May, 2009.

Earlier, Lt. Gen. (R) Syed Athar Ali, Secretary M/o Defence briefly apprised the Committee about the aims, mission, tasks and organizational structure of the Ministry and its attached departments. He informed the Committee that the Ministry had a transparent monitoring system regarding the budget utilization of the Ministry and Departments under its administrative control.

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Dr. Talat Mahesar, Syed Haider Ali Shah, Sheikh Rohale Asghar, Sardar Talib Hassan Nakai, Mir Amer Ali Khan Magsi, Dr. Abdul Wahid Soomro and Mr. Jawad Hussain. Senior Officers from the Ministry of Defence were also present in the meeting.

Islamabad, April 27, 2009

Dewan Ashiq Hussain Bokhari, MNA Elected Chairman NA Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, NA Speaker and Acting Speaker Congratulate Dewan Ashiq Hussain Bokhari

DEWAN ASHIQ HUSSIAN BOKHARI, MNA: ELECTED CHAIRMAN N.A STANDING COMMITTEE ON CABINET SECRETARIAT 
NA SPEAKER AND ACTING SPEAKER CONGRATULATE DEWAN ASHIQ HUSSIAN BOKHARI

Islamabad April 27, 2009: Dewan Ashiq Hussian Bokhari, MNA has been unanimously elected Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committees on Cabinet Secretariat in meeting of the Committee held in Parliament House, today for election of its Chairman.

Name of Dewan Ashiq Hussian Bokhari was proposed by Syed Alla-ud-Din, MNA and seconded by Mrs. Tahira Aurangzeb, MNA. Secretary National Assembly Mr. Karamat Hussain Niazi conducted the election of the Standing Committee.

The Chairman after his unanimous election thanked his fellow parliamentarians in reposing confidence in him by electing him as Chairman. He assured them that with concerted efforts; he would make the Committee useful, effective and purposeful. Members of the respective Committees while felicitating, the Chairmen, assured their cooperation for the smooth functioning of the Committee.

The meeting was attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmad Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower/Chief Whip, MNAs Syed Alla-ud-Din, Mrs. Tahira Aurangzeb, Mr. Tariq Mehmood Bajwa and Malik Nawab Sher Waseer.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly have congratulated Dewan Ashiq Hussian Bokhari on his election as Chairman of the Standing Committee and assured him of their full cooperation in carrying out their constitutional obligations.

Islamabad, April 25, 2009

Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, MNA, chairing the Sub-Committee meeting of the PAC

Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, MNA, chairing the Sub-Committee meeting of the PAC at
Parliament House on 25-04-2009

Islamabad, April 24, 2009

3-N.A Standing Committees Elect their Chairmen, NA Speaker and Acting Speaker Congratulate Newly Elected Chairmen

3-N.A STANDING COMMITTEES ELECT THEIR CHAIRMEN, NA SPEAKER AND ACTING SPEAKER CONGRATULATE NEWLY ELECTED CHAIRMEN

Islamabad April 24, 2009: Meetings of the National Assembly Standing Committees on Culture, Inter Provincial Coordination and Livestock & Dairy Development were held in Parliament House, today for election of their Chairmen.

Mr. Mohammad Raza Hayat Hiraj, Sheikh Waqqas Akram and Mir Jam Mohammad Yousaf were unanimously elected Chairmen of Standing Committees on Culture, Inter Provincial Coordination and Livestock & Dairy Development, respectively.

Secretary National Assembly Mr. Karamat Hussain Niazi conducted the elections of the Standing Committees.

The Chairmen after their unanimous election thanked their fellow parliamentarians in reposing confidence in them by electing them as Chairpersons. They assured them that with concerted efforts; they would make the Committee useful, effective and purposeful. Members of the respective Committees while felicitating, the Chairmen, assured their cooperation for the smooth functioning of the Committees.

The meetings were attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmad Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower/Chief Whip and Members of the respective Standing Committees.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly have congratulated Mr. Mohammad Raza Hayat Hiraj, Sheikh Waqqas Akram and Mir Jam Mohammad Jousaf on their election as Chairmen of the Standing Committees and assured them of their full cooperation in carrying out their constitutional obligations.

Islamabad, April 20, 2009

Ghaus Bux Khan Mehar elected Chairman of NA Standing Committee on Industries and Production

GHAUS BUX KHAN MEHAR, ELECTED CHAIRMAN OF N.A STANDING COMMITTEE ON INDUSTRIES AND PRODUCTION
NA SPEAKER AND ACTING SPEAKER CONGRATULATE NEWLY ELECTED CHAIRMAN

Islamabad April 20, 2009 : Mr. Ghaus Bux Khan Mehar, MNA has been unanimously elected Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Industries and Production. The Committee met this afternoon in Parliament House for election of its Chairman.

Name of Mr. Ghaus Bux Khan Mehar for the chairmanship of the Committee was proposed by Mr. Noor Alam Khan, MNA and supported all the members of the committee. Secretary National Assembly Mr. Karamat Hussian Niazi conducted the election of the Standing Committee.

Mr. Ghaus Bux Khan Mehar after his unanimous election thanked his fellow parliamentarians for reposing confidence in him by electing him as Chairman. He assured them that with concerted efforts; they would make the Committee useful, effective and purposeful. Members of the Committee while felicitating, the Chairman, assured their cooperation for the smooth functioning of the Committee.

The meeting was attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmad Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower/Chief Whip, MNAs Mr. Noor Alam Khan, Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, Mr. Hamid Yar Hiraj, Mr. Abdul Waseem and Molvi Agha Mohammad.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly have congratulated Mr. Ghaus Bux Khan Mehar on his election as Chairman of the Standing Committee and assured him of their full cooperation in carrying out his constitutional obligations.

Islamabad, March 28, 2009

Meeting of NA Standing Committee on Population Welfare

NA STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING ON POPULATION WELFARE

Islamabad March 28, 2009: A Meeting of Standing Committee on Population Welfare was held today in Parliament House. Muhammad Hanif Abbasi chaired the meeting.

The Secretary Mo Population Welfare briefed the Standing Committee about the functions and achievements of the Ministry

The Committee directed the M/o Population Welfare to give details briefing about the Ministry and its attached departments/organizations, salary of the employees, Family Welfare Centers and allocation of budget in the next meeting.

The Committee also directed the Ministry to launch a campaign in the rural areas to sensitize people about the problems of rapid population growth and adoption of population control measures.

The meeting was attended by the following committee members and ex-officio members. Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan, Minister of MoPW, Begum Nasim Akhtar Chaudhry, Mr. Ch. Zahid Iqbal, Ms. Rahela Baloch, Dr. Imtiaz Sultan Bukhari, Ms. Shaeen Ishfaq, Sardar Mohammad Saif-ud-Din Khosa, Mrs. Farkhanda Amjad, Dr. Nahid Shahid Ali, Mr. Mohammad Kamran Khan, Mr. Ghulam Dastagir Rajar, Maulvi Asmatullah, and the other senior officers of MoPW.

Islamabad, March 6, 2009

2-N.A Standing Committees Elect their Chairmen NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Congratulate Newly Elected Chairmen

2-N.A STANDING COMMITTEES ELECT THEIR CHAIRMEN NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONGRATULATE NEWLY ELECTED CHAIRMEN

Islamabad March 6, 2009: Meetings of the National Assembly Standing Committees on Communications and Minorities were held in Parliament House, today for election of their Chairmen.

Mr. Saeed Ahmad Zafar and Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani were unanimously elected Chairmen of Standing Committees on Communications and Minorities, respectively.

Secretary National Assembly Mr. Karamat Hussian Niazi conducted the elections of the Standing Committees.

The Chairmen after their unanimous election thanked their fellow parliamentarians in reposing confidence in them by electing them as Chairmen. They assured them that with concerted efforts; they would make the Committees useful, effective and purposeful. All the members of the Committees congratulated the newly elected Chairmen and assured their cooperation for the smooth functioning of the Standing Committees.

The meetings were attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmad Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower/Chief Whip and Members of the respective Standing Committees.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly congratulated Mr. Saeed Ahmad Zafar and Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani on their election as Chairmen to the National Assembly Standing Committees and assured them of their full cooperation in conducting the meetings of the Standing Committee.

Islamabad, March 05, 2009

West and United States Must Come Forward and Help Countries in the Region to Remove the Root Causes of Terrorism and Extremism said Asfandyar Wali

WEST AND UNITED STATES MUST COME FORWARD AND HELP COUNTRIES IN THE REGION TO REMOVE THE ROOT CAUSES OF TERRORISM AND EXTREMISM SAID ASFANDYAR WALI

Islamabad March 5, 2009: Chairman Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs Asfandyar Wali has said that extremism and terrorism was threat to our society and also a major cause of instability in the region. He urged the West, especially the European Union Countries to help Pakistan in resolving the root causes of extremism.

Asfandyar Wali expressed these views in a meeting of National Assembly Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs held in the Parliament House today that was also attended by the 10 member Danish Parliamentary delegation headed by Gitte Lillelund Bech, Chiarman of the Foreign Policy committee of the Danish Parliament.

The Chairman said that extremism and terrorism in the region was the outcome of the Afghan war. He said that after the Afghan war the United States and the West left the area without resolving the aftermaths of the war. He said that it was the responsibility of the West and United States to come forward and help countries in the region to remove the root causes of terrorism and extremism.

The Chairman said that Pakistan was a peace loving country and believed in peaceful coexistence. He said Pakistan wanted peace with all neighbours and termed peace as pre-requisite for Development and prosperity of the region.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman while briefing the Committee said that Pakistan preferred peace and resolution of problems through dialogue. He said that to end militancy in the region, we need to resolve the root causes of this menace. He said that dialogue was the only way to resolve issues.

The head of the Danish Parliamentary delegation Gitte Lillelund Bech, who is also the Chairman of the Foreign Policy Committee of the Danish Parliament said that the issues of terrorism and extremism are common problems confronting Pakistan, the region and the world and needed to be tackled unitedly.

She said that the whole world was concerned about the instability in the region and added that the legacy of the past should be left behind and we all should unitedly work for better tomorrow. Besides the Danish Parliamentary delegation the meeting was attended by MNAs Miss Palwasha Khan, Mrs. Farah Naz Ispahani, Ms. Fouzia Habib, Mir Amir Ali Khan Magsi, Sh. Aftab Ahmad, Mr. Humair Hayat Khan Rokhri and Dr. Muhammad Farooq Sattar.