……”Opposition Senator makes Statement”
By FRANCIS JOSEPH
Opposition Senator Janelle John-Bates has offered to resign from the Senate.
John-Bates, an attorney, made a statement in the Senate on Friday. But there is no word from Opposition Leader, Penny Beckles-Robinson, that she has accepted the resignation.
Weeks ago, the Opposition PNM removed John-Bates from the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC).
This came amid allegations that John-Bates improperly assisted former Minister of Health, Terrence Deyalsingh, by editing his witness statement ahead of his appearance before the PAAC.
The following is John-Bates statement in the Senate on Friday:
“Over the past few weeks, I have been the subject of much public commentary, criticism, and speculation arising out of matters connected to my role on the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee. Mr President, from the moment I was sworn in as a Senator, I have sought to discharge my duties with integrity in good faith and in the public interest.
I recognize that my involvement in this matter has given rise to public concern and has contributed to a level of controversy that risk distracting from the important work of this Parliament and from the issue affecting the people of Trinidad and Tobago.
“For that I apologize unequivocally to the citizens of our country and to members of the Senate. It was not my intention to obstruct or impede the work of the Committee or the Parliament, and I deny that I conspired to commit a contempt of Parliament.
I remain committed to the principles of integrity fairness and respect for the rule of law that have guided my professional life and I will continue to uphold those values in my service to the country.
“I hereby inform this Senate and the national community that I have offered my resignation to the Honourable Leader of the Opposition. I thank You.”
