January 13: National Council today discussed the need to establish a relief fund to be used during unforeseen natural calamities. The house also deliberated on the importance educating the general public on Acts, rules and regulations.

The National Council member of Haa said it is time the government establishes a relief fund to be used during unforeseen calamities. This he said is in accordance with Article 14 section 12 of the Constitution that the Parliament shall establish a relief fund.

The National Council member Rinzin from Lhuentse quoted the example of windstorm in the eastern region last year. He said the fund would help to address such the need of people during disasters on time.

Council member Kinley Tshering said Bhutan lies in a region, which is prone to natural disasters. Trongsa Council member Dr. Jagar Dorji said several pilot programmes have been carried out on disaster management in the past. He said that lack of effective enforcement is a concern. The house agreed to put up the proposal to relevant ministries and agencies for establishment of a relief fund.

The House also deliberated on the importance for people to be aware of Acts, rules and regulations of the country. Members said it is also important for members to be aware of all the Acts, rules and regulations.

The chairperson said in total there are 130 Acts, rules and regulations in the country at present. The house decided to put up a proposal to all agencies and sectors to provide copies of Acts, rules and regulations to the parliamentarians.

Yesterday the house deliberated on representation of parliament to the Public accounts committee. Members said the committee should comprise of five members from both the houses. This they said will help to promote objectivity and independence.