Majority of CMU Council members resign

 

The majority of the members of the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) Council have now resigned.

 

Karl Samuda, Minister with responsibility for Education, told the House of Representatives Tuesday afternoon that only one member had not yet resigned.

 

He is expecting the individual to step down from the post.

 

Mr. Samuda said a new CMU Council will be appointed quickly as a list of recommended persons will be provided to Cabinet next Monday, January 27. 

 

Once approved, the new Council will hold its first meeting the following week, he said. 

 

Mr. Samuda noted that Prime Minister Andrew Holness is to make a "full statement" on Friday outlining the government's strategy  regarding the future of the Caribbean Maritime University. 

 

He pointed out that, contrary to some reports, there are "no challenges currently facing the CMU in day-to-day management of the university."

 

 

During Tuesday afternoon's sitting of the House of Representatives, Opposition Spokesman on Education Peter Bunting questioned whether Hyacinth Bennett's appointment as Chairman of the CMU Council was a breach of policy. 

 

He noted for appointment on the CMU council, there must be two representatives of the Port Authority, two representatives of the Shipping Association, each appointed after consultation with the stated entities; one representative each from the University of the West Indies and the University of Technology; four persons having special technical expertise in maritime matters; two persons representative of the interest of maritime or trade associations within the Caribbean region; and one representative of the government of Norway. 

 

"Which one of these categories would Hyacinth Bennett fall into," he questioned.