7 Jun 2007

Solomons PM concerned about health of parliamentarians

11:45 am on 7 June 2007

The Solomon Islands prime minister, Manasseh Sogavare, has raised grave concern over the ill-health of members of parliament.

As a result, cabinet has liaised with medical authorities for MP's to undergo compulsory routine medical checks.

Mr Sogavare says MP's are public officers and should be conscious of their health and what they take into their body.

He says they are expected to perform to their utmost best in discharging their duties.

Last month, in a span of 24-days, two MP's in the 50 member parliament died as a result of diabetes-related sickness.

They are Public Service Minister Joses Sanga and a former prime minister and leader of Liberal Party Bartholomew Ulufa'alu.