- CCI approves mechanism for at-source deduction of outstanding power sector payables of provinces, gives a go-ahead to draft for restoration of executive magistracy, orders inquiry into irregularities in Kachi Canal project
The Council of Common Interests (CCI) has approved the mechanism for at-source deduction of outstanding power sector payables of the provinces. Under the mechanism which will be effective from July 1, the provinces and the federal government are to reconcile old arrears within 30 days.
Thursday’s meeting, with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in the chair, also gave approval to a draft of the Pakistan Energy Efficiency and Conservation (PEEC) Bill 2014 and for its tabling in the National Assembly.
The council also approved a draft amendment in the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 in relation to the restoration of executive magistracy. The amendment would later be tabled in the Parliament for formal approval.
The CCI moreover ordered an enquiry into irregularities in the Kachi Canal project which is to be conducted by international auditors. The prime minister also expressed his displeasure at the delay in the enquiry by concerned officials. He directed Minister for Water and Power Khawaja Asif to take action against those responsible for delaying the enquiry and submit a report during the council’s next meeting.
Furthermore, the agenda of the 6th population census was deferred till next meeting. The premier directed that the concerns raised by the Balochistan chief minister should be discussed with the Balochistan government and a report be submitted within two weeks.
The CCI also approved the amendments in Gwadar Port Authority Act. It was decided that the chairman of the Gwadar Port Authority would be a nominee of the Balochistan chief minister. Regarding the matter of 50 per cent membership of the Board of Governors of Gwadar Port Authority, it was decided that amendments in the act would be made.
The CCI also approved the permanent absorption of federal employees transferred to provincial government after devolution through the 18th Amendment. The meeting also decided to expedite the absorption process.
Moreover, Federal Finance Minister Ishaq Dar briefed the CCI on Public Debt Management and supervision policy. He said that in order to improve the debt management operation, the government has initiated a process of preparing a comprehensive medium-term debt strategy in consultation with all stakeholders. The strategy will facilitate in making strategic decisions for new borrowing including the appropriate mix between domestic and external loans to finance the budget deficit, he added.
The meeting also endorsed the Framework for 11th Five Year Plan (2013-18) and Pakistan Vision 2025. The meeting also approved Amendment in Criminal Procedure Code 1898 for restoration of executive magistracy.
