The Editor, Sir:

At some point in time the concept of parliamentary privilege may have been sacrosanct. This was when our nation was young; many of us were less aware and the Internet and other trappings of the Information Age did not exist.

In today's modern society where live Internet transmission and the proliferation of media and enabling gadgets and systems exist - I am suggesting that the concept of parliamentary privileges needs to be reviewed.

Especially as it relates to the so-called "protection from prosecution" for things said in the Houses of Parliament. The modern reality is that careers can be ended, families destroyed and economies wrecked should someone use 'parliamentary privilege' to settle a grouse or otherwise bury the hatchet in someone else's back.

Retooled procedures

This is why the Canadian parliament has modernised and retooled its own procedures with respect to the privileges of parliamentarians on several occasions in the past decade. Research will reveal that the birthplace of the concept, Westminster in London has seen modern light being shed on this most ancient concept. Thorough research reveals the cause of its institution in the first place - protection from reprisals from the British monarchy after the reinstitution of Charles II.

Let's get modern. By the way - has anyone tracked the global blogs and various similar channels since the recent round of the 'cas cas' between the current and former ministers of finance?

I am, etc.,

GLENDON PARKINSON

Attorney-at-law

park_it_here@yahoo.ca

Lansbury Drive

Toronto