Legislation addressing conflict of interest, lobbying and unethical political behaviour is lacking right across the country, says a federal democracy watchdog—and Newfoundland and Labrador is no different.
Questions have been raised by the Opposition about a fishing trip Premier Andrew Furey was on with friend John Risley—a major proponent in a proposed wind energy and hydrogen project for the southwest coast.
(John Risley File Photo)
The premier has indicated that he can spend his downtime how he wants and that he has put up “ethical walls” but questions remain about what laws are in place to ensure that governments are above board and transparent.
Duff Conacher of Democracy Watch says legislation must be strong with no loopholes. Ethics, information, and lobbying commissioners must be independent and have the power to penalize.
A fully-independent commission must be in place searching for qualified candidates, and in smaller jurisdictions where there are “too many relationships,” then consideration must be given to hiring someone from outside the jurisdiction.
The independence of those commissioners is key, says Conacher.
“Politicians choosing their own watchdogs means you’re going to end up with lapdogs.”
