Defending his move to ask Justice Cecil Kennard to step down as Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority, President David Granger says his Government is “focused on creating an atmosphere in which other persons, who are younger, are able to take a lead.”
Speaking to media operatives today (Wednesday, February 01, 2017), the President said a general review is being undertaken of the State Boards, Agencies and Commissions, with the aim of establishing an age of retirement for persons who sit on these Government arms.
He noted that “there will be a general order explaining our policy on age and retirement for Agencies, Boards and Commissions but at the same time we hope to give other persons an opportunity to serve so that over a period of time we build up expertise in the younger generations too.”
He added that it is expected that in the coming days, more information would become available.
While commending Justice Kennard for his work in the position, President Granger offered an apology for the short notice but maintained that it was a decision that had to be taken.
“There was no negative report. In fact, the decision was taken to review all of the Boards including the Central Housing and Planning Authority. I regret very much the short notice. He does deserve longer notice and there was a consideration of the length of service and the age of the persons holding those offices. I have worked with him and he came before the Disciplined Forces Commission and he has a lot of bright ideas, but at this time we look forward to filling all of the Constitutional appointments. We also have the Public Service Tribunal…We want to fill the Ombudsman so it is a result of a general review of all the agencies, Boards and Commissions,” President Granger said.
Kennard who is almost 80-years-old was asked by the head of State to step down from the position of Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority by the end of February, according to media reports.
