Deputy PM feels ignored, unable to keep an eye on PM Siniora
Ya Liban
20/08/2008
Deputy Prime Minister Issam Abu Jamra called in remarks published Wednesday for establishing his own office at the Grand Serail so he can keep an eye on Prime Minister Fouad Siniora.
"I will not accept to play a marginal role and watch what Siniora does without knowing the documents he is signing or discussing," Abu Jamra told the daily As Safir.
Abu Jamra said he would suggest amending the text of the prime minister performance management system "such as it preserves the role of deputy prime minister."
The deputy premier also said he would reject a proposal for renting property near the finance ministry where Abu Jamra's offices would be located, pointing out that rehabilitation of the office building would cost $2 million, let alone the expensive rental.
In support of Abu Jamra MP Nabil Nicola who is also s a member of the reform and change bloc which is headed by MP Michel Aoun told ANB TV today:" We are not asking to take over the responsibilities of the Prime Minister but we are asking for responsibilities for the deputy Prime Minister . To start with he should have an office at the Grand Serial...after all his position is a ministerial post 
Deputy Prime Minister Powers -
9th November 2008
