No 3: Transparency

The legal framework establishes that plenary sessions are public. Agendas for plenary sessions are available in advance. Duly accredited media representatives are authorized to attend plenary sessions, as are members of the public. Closed plenary sessions are only held in exceptional circumstances as prescribed by law.

No 2: Venue

The legal framework establish that plenary sessions are only to be held in the respective chamber(s) on the parliamentary premises, except where alternative venues or virtual sittings are permitted, or in other circumstances where imperative reasons dictate such changes. 

No 1: Legal framework

The legal framework provides for the holding of plenary sessions. All major decisions made on behalf of parliament are debated and voted on by the plenary.

Based on a global comparative analysis, an aspiring goal for parliaments in the area of “plenary” is as follows:

  • The legal framework provides for the holding of plenary sessions. All major decisions made on behalf of parliament are debated and voted on by the plenary.
  • Parliament’s rules of procedure cover all aspects related to the conduct of plenary sessions. The Speaker enforces these rules impartially.
  • Plenary sessions are held in the respective chamber(s) on the parliamentary premises, except where the legal framework provides for alternative venues or virtual sittings.  
  • Plenary sessions are open to the public. Duly accredited media representatives are authorized to attend plenary sessions, as are members of the public. Closed plenary sessions are only held in exceptional circumstances as prescribed by law.
  • Agendas for plenary sessions are approved by the plenary itself and are made publicly available in advance of the session.
     

Based on a global comparative analysis, an aspiring goal for parliaments in the area of “dissolution” is as follows:

  • The constitution stipulates clear powers for the dissolution of parliament. Laws, practice and guidance clearly specify the roles of those involved in this process.
  • There are clear rules defining the length of the parliamentary term, what happens when that term ends, and timelines for MPs leaving and taking up office.
  • The rules also stipulate requirements for keeping and archiving official records and transcripts, and complying with ethics requirements, upon the dissolution of parliament.
     
No 3: Archiving and ethics requirements

Parliament’s rules of procedure set out the record-keeping, archiving and ethics requirements that outgoing MPs must comply with when parliament is dissolved.

No 2: Dissolution procedures

The impact of dissolution on the work of parliament is detailed in parliament’s rules of procedure and practice, including the procedures for ending the parliamentary session and for the end of the term of outgoing MPs.

No 1: Constitutional provisions

The constitution defines the end of the parliamentary term, as well as the authority and procedure for dissolution of parliament before the end of the term. These provisions and any associated rules clearly specify the roles of those involved in this process.

No 3: Availability in all official working languages

Records are made available in the official working languages outlined in the constitution. 

No 2: Storage and publication

Parliament’s records are stored securely in a central repository that is easily accessible to MPs, staff and the public in print and online. Any exceptions to the publication of records are defined in the rules of procedure.

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