Government Senator Leroy Baptiste delivered a forceful defence of parliamentary integrity in the Senate, as he delivered a special report on the conduct of Senator Janelle John-Bates.
Senator John-Bates has faced criticism after allegations that she improperly assisted the former Health Minister Terrance Deyalsingh by editing his witness statement before his appearance before the public Administration and Appropriations Committee.
Earlier on Friday, she apologized for public concern and denied wrongdoing, before offering her resignation.
Senator Baptiste said there was a fundamental breach and said the matter before the chamber was not about personalities about protecting the principles that underpin our democracy.
He stressed that Parliament’s core responsibilities depend heavily on the proper functioning of committees.
Senator Baptiste described the committees as the “engines of scrutiny” and “watchdogs of accountability,” while highlighting that the PAAC examines government spending and administration.
He also raised concerns about the findings that Senator Faris Al Rawi also allegedly assisted in preparing evidence to be presented before the same body.
Senator Baptiste said such conduct represents a serious conflict of interest and undermines the impartiality required of parliaments.
He also pointed to the leak of confidential committee proceedings as a further breach of trust, warning that both actions threaten public confidence in the institution.
Baptiste urged senators to act on principle emphasizing the need to uphold the dignity of Parliament, protect its processes, and reaffirm their oath to serve the people of Trinidad and Tobago.
