Corinne McKnight has always been one of my favourite Independent Senators. She's frank, caustic and critical. There are however, certain codes of conduct that an Independent Senator must follow to protect the integrity of the Independent bench. I believe Senator McKnight has crossed that line by launching a political attack on the Government on the Section 34 issue. Now that the rug has been pulled out from beneath her, her mask has slipped and she must do the right and honourable thing, which is to tender her resignation to the President with an apology to the nation.

I have long been an advocate for the abolition of the Independent Senators in our Parliament. The recent faux pas made by the Senator has reinforced my views on this matter.

I was mortified to hear her make a snide reference during the debate to repeal Section 34 about the AG's status of Senior Counsel when she referred to her colleague Mr Prescott as true silk. Her remarks about the Government are uncomplimentary and highly critical in most regards.

In a society as small and politically charged as ours, Independent thinkers are a rare and precious commodity. The fact is, however, the President, which is elected by the Government of the day is who selects and appoints Independent Senators.

Basdeo Panday has long made the point that the President is the creature of the power of the party in power. By extension, Independent Senators selected will have some political leaning. It would be best if we move toward a system that allows a civil society and NGOs to have a voice instead.

Michael Bernard

Diego Martin