Parliamentarians indulged in some levity today, after having been frequently embroiled in heated debate over a number of issues in recent weeks.

Works Minister S Samy Vellu tickled the House in answering a supplementary question during the ministerial winding up on points raised during the debate on Budget 2006.

Opposition Leader Lim Kit Siang asked why there are still infrastructural defects in Parliament - citing the state of the toilets as an example - even after spending RM99 million on renovations last year.

In a tongue-in-cheek reference to the appointment of an administrator for Parliament, Lim also asked why there is a need to create the post of "director of toilets".

He pointed out that the doctrine of separation of powers "has had to be abolished because of the Public Works Department's failure to install proper toilets" in the building.

Samy Vellu, however, described the toilets in the building as beautiful "...like newlyweds". On a serious note, though, he informed MPs that he has asked architects to deal with the problems.

When Lim asked if he had plans to appoint a director of toilets for every ministry, the minister responded to laughter: "I can announce to the country that Yang Berhormat Opposition Leader is the director of toilets."

Repairs to facilities

Samy Vellu further said the ministry has suggested to the cabinet that "facility management" be introduced to gather information on needs in Parliament and thereby enable action to be taken.

To this, Fong Po Kuan (DAP-Batu Gajah) said: "Later I can accompany the minister to take a look at the ladies' toilet. The door cannot be closed and the flush cannot be used.

"This is because of poor work...(a standard of) work (that can) only (come) from Barisan Nasional. How can this happen when Parliament only sits for some 70 days in a year?"

Her animated expression caught the attention of Mohamed Aziz (BN-Sri Gading) who advised her not to speak too loud, and Samy Vellu continued to amuse the House.

"What is the connection between Barisan Nasional and toilets? I really like Yang Berhormat (Fong), every day (she mentions) Barisan Nasional," he said.

"How about a minister for toilets, as suggested by Ipoh Timor (Lim)? Why don't we have an Opposition Leader (for) Toilets?"

However, he then assured that all problems would be resolved.

On April 28, a Parliament sitting had come to a premature end at 3.30pm because the roof began leaking badly during a thunderstorm.

Samy Vellu provided details on how the leak had occurred and said repairs had been carried out within 24 hours.

"The contractor bore the full cost of repairs and will monitor the situation from time to time," he added.