Vega Cagey When Asked about Saldivar’s Relationship with Mason
But is it fair game to remove John Saldivar from cabinet because of his connections and business dealings with Mason? Saldivar’s integrity is being called into question and by extension that of the entire U.D.P. government. This is what Vega has to say.
Gaspar Vega, Former DPM
“I don’t know what dealings he had; I don’t really know and I don’t want to speculate. I don’t want to add any firewood to the fire.”
Reporter
“As a representative of government, how would you suggest then the situation be handled? Serious allegations are being made against representatives or ministers in government—the PM’s name has been dragged into the whole thing at certain points. What would you say, as being part of the government right now—the people want answers—what’s the best way to follow after?”
Gaspar Vega
“I think we have to get the truth but it is so impossible because even the media wants certain answers and sometimes they are not looking for the truth. They have already made up their mind that this is the answer and if you give them a different answer, then they keep insisting for a different answer. We have to be honest, everybody has to be honest and we have to ensure that we take it for what it is due. We don’t want to make a hurricane out a half glass of water.”
Reporter
“Would you say though that there should be some sort of investigation into the allegations specifically with the Minister of National Security?”
Gaspar Vega
“What type of investigations? I think the people need to say what type of investigation.”
Reporter
“…his links with government ministers and the fact that he was giving out money—yes it was to Bandits, but the allegation is that he has given money to more people. In fact, he has written a list of people he has given money to. I don’t know if he has given it to police, but that is our understanding.”
Gaspar Vega
“Well that should be investigated. Things like that should be investigated. But we have to be mature on what we are asking for.”
Reporter
“But are you confident that the police minister, having been called into question in this investigation, that we are even going to get a proper investigation?”
Gaspar Vega
“I am certain we are, if you ask for it. But we have to investigate criminal activities.”