Government confirms plans to amend controversial clause in Integrity Commission Bill

Following intense push back by some members of  civil society and other stakeholders, details have been provided on changes that will be made to the Integrity Commission Bill.

Kamina Johnson-Smith, Leader of Government Business in the Senate, has confirmed that changes will be made when the new Parliamentary term begins in September.

The Bill was passed in the Senate last week with more than 100 amendments.

One of the issues which later generated debate relates to provisions which could allow Cabinet to designate some contracts confidential, and prevent them being probed in a particular manner, or require that investigators seek permission before starting an investigation.

Another pertains to the secrecy which would apply to some Cabinet decisions.

Senator Johnson-Smith, speaking Thursday on RJR’s Beyond the Headlines, acknowledged the concerns, and explained she and Justice Minister Delroy Chuck had discussed the pertinent issues with their Cabinet colleagues, while consultations were also being held with the leaders of Opposition Business in both houses of Parliament.

When Parliament resumes sittings in September, “we’ll finalise terms” (concerning the necessary amendments), she said.