Furbert withdraws ‘bribery’ motion
A motion to look into allegations of “extortion and bribery” against three government ministers was withdrawn last night by Opposition MP Wayne Furbert.
The motion, which was tabled by Mr Furbert, proposed that the House should discuss calling on the Governor to create a Commission of Inquiry to investigate allegations made by developer Michael McLean against Craig Cannonier, the former Premier; Michael Fahy, the Minister of Home Affairs; and Mark Pettingill, the former Attorney-General.
The allegations — which were made in a Supreme Court affidavit in connection to the Waterfront redevelopment project — have been fiercely denied by all three ministers.
Addressing the House of Assembly last night, Mr Furbert said that since laying the motion, he had engaged in discussions with members of the Progressive Labour Party and the wider community about its nature.
“The question on the motion comes down to, is the motion lawful, or is it expedient?” he asked.
“We could debate this motion and yes, it will turn out to be one of the nastiest debates we would have ever had in this House, with fingers being pointed in all directions.
“At the end of the day, what would we have achieved? What would that accomplish? What would we achieve by tearing ourselves apart? Would we have advanced the peace, prosperity and welfare of these Islands?
“My answer is no, and each one of us must admit the same.
“To be honest, I am sick and tired of accusations and innuendoes without any proof. Today I am not going to be part of that.
“Let the police do its job, and if they do not, then the guilt is on their hands and not ours.”
He subsequently withdrew the motion, leading to MPs from both parties drumming their feet on the ground in support.
During the Motion to Adjourn, he suggested the House consider establishing an ethics committee to discuss the code of conduct in the future.