Dear Editor,
I have noted that a lively controversy has arisen in the public domain concerning the origins of the proposal that a Freedom of Information Bill be tabled for debate and passage in the National Assembly. I have also noted that Mr Trotman , leader of the AFC, has made reference to my knowledge of the events surrounding the origins of such an idea and for as long as he reports accurately on what transpired, he is free to do so.
However, I have noticed a very impassioned assault from Christopher Vieira on the People’s National Congress Reform , describing our position as disgusting among other things. In the interest of clarity and truth I wish to publicly recall my participation in these events.
In 2002, when Mr Trotman was still a member of the Central Executive of the People’s National Congress Reform, he approached me to say that he had raised with Mr Desmond Hoyte, then the Leader of the PNC Reform, the idea that the opposition should be more proactive in its approach by drafting and proposing legislation which was progressive and demonstrated our commitment to good governance. On that basis, he alleged that he had approached Mr Hoyte with the idea of the PNC Reform tabling a Freedom of Information Bill in the National Assembly.
He advised me that Mr Hoyte had concurred with this approach and had advised him to include me in the discussions since I was interested in matters concerning information and related sectors and since Mr Hoyte believed that I was supportive of this approach of legislative proactivity.
Mr Trotman pointed out to me that he had already taken the trouble of procuring a copy of the Trinidadian legislation and suggested that I look at it and suggest proposals which could be worked on by lawyers in the party.
I concurred and began research and consultation on the matter with the intention of making proposals to Mr Trotman since it was his initiative and since he possessed the vital equipment which I lacked for taking the process forward, that is legal training. The copy of the Trindad Act which Mr Trotman loaned me I still have in my possession as well as the notes of the research which I had commenced.
While I was saddened and disappointed that Mr Trotman chose to leave the ranks of the PNC Reform, I have no difficulty in commending him on the progress he has since made on this matter and our party will support the matter in the house when the time comes. I cannot, , however, understand why members and supporters of the AFC have difficulty accepting the fact that Mr Trotman had a brain before he joined forces with them.
Yours faithfully,
Deryck Bernard
