The Public Administration and Appropriations Committee is recommending that Parliament formally consider the conduct of Opposition Senator Janelle John-Bates.
In a Special Report laid today, the Committee says the recommendation follows concerns that the Senator may have compromised the integrity of an ongoing inquiry into the State’s acquisition of pharmaceuticals.
The report outlines that Senator John-Bates admitted to assisting former Health Minister Terrance Deyalsingh in preparing a written submission intended for the Committee’s review, raising questions about impartiality.
It also points to evidence suggesting possible collusion and describes the matter as serious enough to warrant reporting to both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
The Committee says while no final findings have yet been made, the issue threatens public confidence in the inquiry process and the work of Parliament.
The report further notes that the Senator has since been removed from the Committee, as investigations continue, including a probe into leaked in-camera proceedings.
The inquiry into the pharmaceutical procurement system is expected to resume with additional public hearings.