Iraq Parliament absentees thwart vote on absenteeism

[Barrett808]

BAGHDAD - Iraq's parliament proposed a law on Monday to sack members of the National Assembly who repeatedly failed to turn up for work -- but the decision was put on hold because too many were absent to hold a vote.

The chamber voted 74 in favour and 71 against the legislation, but deputy speaker Hussein al-Shahristani decided to put proceedings on hold because those opposed said the absentees had a right to vote.

It was not clear why the remaining members of the 275-member parliament had missed work.

"We are in a national assembly and we have to obey its rules," said an assembly member.

(more)

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/story.cfm?c_id=2&ObjectID=10343059

[Tace]

1. This Shit Is Nuts

I know, I know. Time to go to bed. Chrs.

[FVZA_Colonel]

2. This sounds like a headline from The Onion. eom.

[Barrett808]

4. Truly. n/t

[Chicago Democrat]

3. A clear victory for nothing!

On the road to nowhere....

[ECH1969]

5. Sounds like the US Congress

[enigma000]

6. By George W. ! They've got democracy ! n/t

[BrotherBuzz]

7. Sounds like a Maj. Major M. Major moment (Catch 22)

Maj. Major M. Major: Sergeant, from now on, I don't want anyone to come in to see me while I'm in my office. Is that clear?

Sgt. Towser: Yes, sir. What do I say to people who want to come in and see you while you're in your office?

Maj. Major M. Major: Tell them I'm in and ask them to wait.

Sgt. Towser: For how long?

Maj. Major M. Major: Until I've left.

Sgt. Towser: And then what do I do with them?

Maj. Major M. Major: I don't care.

Sgt. Towser: May I send people in to see you after you've left?

Maj. Major M. Major: Yes.

Sgt. Towser: You won't be here then, will you?

Maj. Major M. Major: No.