By Gail Alexander, Guardian TT

More Commissions of Inquiry are coming, Prime Minister Patrick Manning has confirmed.

"Certainly, yes," he replied, when asked if other inquiries will follow the three which have so far taken place.

These inquiries focused on the EBC, Biche High School construction and the Piarco terminal project. The Piarco Inquiry is still ongoing.

Manning made the disclosure to reporters after yesterday’s swearing-in of 14 Ministers at President's House.

Attorney General Glenda Morean who was not sworn in on Wednesday, along with Manning, was the first to take the oath of office yesterday.

Manning said he could not give date for the expected inquiries. Nor could he give details about what will be the focus of the inquiries.

On whether the plan might affect peace on the political landscape, he replied: "It's not a question of peace or war...it is integrity or lack of integrity. We cannot conduct our business in a matter that suggests people can do wrong and escape. If such persons escape, it's not because the State hasn't tried to do right."

As for the first few inquiries, Manning said any action depended on the recommendations and "...what the Cabinet considers appropriate."

Health Minister Colm Imbert was also asked if any of the future inquiries would focus on the Regional Health Authorities.

He said he did not know. He added, however, that an inquiry into the RHAs was one of 10 such investigations which the PNM had called for in the now defunct Crowne Plaza accord of 2001.

"If I am instructed to pursue a Commission of Inquiry into the RHAs, then so be it – we'll do it," Imbert added.

Manning also said President Arthur NR Robinson will deliver a feature address at the opening of Parliament. A ceremonial opening is planned for the start of the new five-year term. The function begins at 10 am.

Manning also said he will deliver the 2003 Budget in Parliament on October 21.

Government has not yet selected a House Speaker, he added.

Manning said he had not considered any nominations for President yet.

He also said consultations will continue with the UNC, now in Opposition, on legislation.

Reproduced from:
http://www.guardian.co.tt/news13.html