The shadow minister for justice believes government is applying a double standard in allowing former Justice Minister Andrew Parsons to remain in Cabinet.

RCMP in Nova Scotia will lead the investigation into a complaint of alleged political interference against Parsons.

Former RNC officer Joe Smyth alleges that Parsons played a role in his being charged with obstruction of justice in connection with a traffic ticket he gave to a motorcyclist. Smyth was eventually cleared by the courts of the obstruction charge.

Citing declarations by the RNC chief and the director of public prosecutions that there was no interference, Premier Andrew Furey said Parsons’ ability to serve was not being impeded.

Justice Critic Helen Conway Ottenheimer says the Premier is in no position to pre-judge the outcome of an RCMP investigation. Ottenheimer, the MHA for Harbour Main, notes that Sherry Gambin Walsh had to step aside while RCMP were investigating her.

She brings up Dale Kirby and Eddie Joyce who were removed for parliamentary investigation but this is an RCMP investigation.

Helen Conway Ottenheimer spoke on the VOCM Morning Show. Listen below: