The NDP says current conflict of interest legislation effectively allows former MLAs to “sail away into the sunset” should they be found in breach of the act, so long as they don’t run again.
The Opposition has proposed a $50,000 penalty against former Sask. Party MLA Gary Grewal as a way to strengthen conflict of interest laws and punishments for breaches.
NDP shadow minister for ethics and democracy Meara Conway argues the laws and consequences should apply to both former and current MLAs.
“We were given legal advice that the current members’ conflict of interest act has a gap in that it prevents bringing penalties forward against former MLAs,” Conway told media at the legislative building on Monday, adding that it effectively allows them to “sail away into the sunset” should they be found in breach of the act, so long as they don’t run again.
“It’s ridiculous.”
In October, the conflict of interest commissioner ruled that Grewal had breached the act twice when it came to light that two hotels with which he was affiliated or owned entered into contracts with the Ministry of Social Services. Grewal announced in February that he did not intend to seek re-election this year (the provincial vote took place Oct. 28).
Conway said the NDP’s call for a fine came about through consultation with legal counsel, adding that Grewal “profiteered” to the tune of over $731,000 “in public money.” She said counsel considered fines from elsewhere in Canada to land on the $50,000 figure.
“When was the last time that a private citizen was summoned or subpoenaed by the legislature? I don’t know that that’s ever happened,” Moe said Thursday regarding the NDP’s failed emergency motion to have Grewal appear before the legislative assembly and answer questions about the hotel controversy.
On Monday, Moe committed to a review of the act over the next year but made no specific comment regarding fines against former MLAs.
— with files from Murray Mandryk
The Regina Leader-Post has created an Afternoon Headlines newsletter that can be delivered daily to your inbox so you are up to date with the most vital news of the day. Click here to subscribe.
With some online platforms blocking access to the journalism upon which you depend, our website is your destination for up-to-the-minute news, so make sure to bookmark leaderpost.com and sign up for our newsletters so we can keep you informed. Click here to subscribe.