Dear Editor,

So some Members of Parliament who are habitually late or absent from Parliament complain about having to use toll roads and the rising costs to travel to and fro. Some we understand pay as much as $7,000 daily.There are 63 Members of Parliament elected to the Lower House, each serving a five-year term. It is fair to say that most Members of Parliament live outside the Corporate Area. Parliamentarians do not earn much, and so it is for this reason I believe Government should look into negotiating some sort of electronic pass to be used on toll roads by sitting Members. They are, in effect, representing the people, doing business for the country, whether in Government or Opposition. I believe the toll operators should either consider a discounted pass, or a free pass.I’ve always wondered if the prime minister has to pay a toll, or even the governor general. Some flexibility should be negotiated to facilitate those who serve in an official capacity. If an electronic pass is issued, use of the toll roads can also be monitored to determine ‘abnormal’ usage or abuse.We are often critical of politicians, but some actually do a lot of work in the interest of those they represent, as well as the country as a whole. I hope the Government and toll operators consider this suggestion. 

P Chin

chin_p@yahoo.com