Incoming Integrity Chair was Vetted by PM and Opposition Leader, Says U.D.P. Senator

Michael Peyrefitte

In addressing his concerns, N.G.O. Senator Osmany Salas also cited the standing orders which govern upper parliament, in the context of being able to question the designated chair.  The issue was promptly batted down by fellow Senator Michael Peyrefitte, who went on to say that Arzu-Torres was carefully vetted and approved by both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition.

Michael Peyrefitte, U.D.P. Senator

“If you have an issue with the standing orders, then propose a change.  Why use this particular appointment to want to change it and summon someone to question them.  Why wasn’t there a desire to question the people from the Elections and Boundaries Commission, for example, equally as important.  But let me say this, Mr. President it has been extremely difficult to find someone who is able and willing to be the chair of the Integrity Commission.  Do we not want a person to be appointed to the position?  Do we want it or not?  That’s what we are saying.  We found someone who nobody can question her integrity, nobody can question her competence and so we proposed that person and we are here today now to confirm that person.  Now there is a process Mr. President, the Governor General appoints this person based on the advice of the Prime Minister, which means the Prime Minister and his team they do their homework.  They do their investigation of this person.  The advice of the Leader of the Opposition is sought which means that the Leader of the Opposition is given an opportunity to do his homework with his team about the individual.  That’s the process, that’s the vetting process in our system.  That’s what we have.  A thirteenth senator doesn’t correct that process.  Nothing special about a thirteenth senator.  We are here today to affirm this appointment.  Now Senator Salas, I can’t understand why you want to interview the person here.”