Second term of Federal National Council concludes with discussions on key developmental issues

The successful deliberations of the FNC also highlighted the evolution of strong policy making mechanisms in the country supported by a parliamentary system built on the premises of dialogue, co-operation and action.

His Excellency Dr Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs, said that the success of the FNC reflects the joint efforts of the executive and legislature in addressing issues of national importance.

It also reiterates the commitment of the UAE leadership to enhance the socio-economic prosperity of residents by ushering in development strategies through the legislative system.

Dr Gargash stressed on the breakthroughs in the past FNC term and how they have contributed to strengthening the UAE's political process. He added that the subjects raised by FNC members reflected their commitment to the overall welfare of the nation.

During the concluding session of the second term, the FNC discussed a draft federal law for establishing the Federal Health Authority (FHA) in the presence of HE Humaid Al Quttami, Minister of Health.

The session also discussed a draft federal law on weapons, ammunition and fire works and amendments to the federal law number (29) for the year 2006 regarding special needs individuals.

The discussion took place in the presence of HE Abdullah Rashid Al Suwaidi, Director General - Ministry of Social Affairs and a senior representative from the Ministry of Interior.

HE Gargash praised the professionalism of HE Saqr Ghobash, Minister of Labour, in dealing with queries about unlicensed jobs and services.

The session also evaluated responses from the Ministry of Interior on the traffic regulation system and from the Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development on the lyrics of the National Anthem.

HE Gargash commended the efforts of the FNC members in promoting the legislative environment in the UAE and utilizing its role in addressing issues of national concerns in economic, social, security, and education matters.

He also hailed the patriotism of the members in representing the nation's views of the UAE in international forums.

His Excellency Tariq Hilal Lootah, Director-General - MSFNCA said: "The sessions of the past term witnessed key discussions that dealt with many draft laws and initiatives that contribute to the overall development of the nation". He added: "We witnessed a new process of political participation resulting from the combined efforts of the constitutional bodies in the UAE. This further cements the achievements of our nation on all levels."

Lootah also reiterated the need to continue working on developing political participation to complete the agenda of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan President of the UAE, to further strengthen political processes in the UAE.