November 18, 2010

Mississauga South MP Paul Szabo wants federal politicians to change their potentially "dangerous" and "damaging" ways.

The longtime MP tabled Bill 596 today in the House of Commons, calling for ethical criteria for politicians regarding their privileges, immunities and powers.

"There are (politicians) who give information that is factually incorrect or just plain wrong and can be dangerous or damaging to others," Szabo told The News from Ottawa. "The presumption of honesty isn't written anywhere in our Parliament of Canada Act, and this bill would make parliamentarians think twice before they say things they shouldn't say or do things they shouldn't do."

The bill seeks to amend the Parliament of Canada Act by adding a clause that states: "The members shall, in the exercise of their privileges, immunities and powers referred to in section 4, endeavour to ensure that their conduct is fair and generally beneficial, fosters goodwill and encourages and cultivates friendship, and that their speech is truthful and consistent with that conduct."

Szabo added the bill would make it possible for an MP to appear before the Procedure and House Affairs Committee in Ottawa if they're accused of violating the proposed legislation. "The capacity of legislators to inspire a nation is diminished unless our words and our deeds are true, fair and beneficial and promote friendship and goodwill," he said. "This isn't a profession that's held in high esteem. We know the public feels that way and this bill would endeavour to fix that."

Asked about potential opposition, Szabo said: "This bill is calling for our elected officials to exercise good conduct...it would be hard to speak out against it."

lrosella@mississauga.net