Senators Debate Role of M.C.C. Oversight Team With $125 Million U.S. Grant

Senators also questioned the fact that four government C.E.O.’s will be appointed as members of the board of directors. There were also concerns over renumeration and the level of oversight from M.C.C. that almost makes it impossible to get anything done without their approval. Here is more from the debate.

 

Bishop Alvin Benguche, Church Senator

“On the aspect of the board, part two eleven where it speaks to renumeration. I think we need to continue to note that aspect, whereby I would hope and even though there will be oversight, I would hope that as we speak to the issue of renumeration that it would involve those who in an authentic way should receive. I can see there than on the board, especially the voting members, and I think if I am right there about three C.E.O.s who are already receiving a salary and should be restricted in so far as they are already receiving a salary and additional renumeration that they would not have to fit into this category.”

 

Eamon Courtenay, Lead Government Senator

“The long and short of it is that this is U.S. taxpayers’ money primarily, and there are legal requirements in the U.S. that put in place checks and balances that must be imposed on countries that receive the grant. While we may have pushed back and revealed our concerns and continue to express the concerns of the roles and responsibilities of M.C.C. representatives, their hands are tied. Ultimately why one has to accept it, is that you have to pay a price. What the role of the M.C.C. is designed to ensure that there is value for money in terms of the money that is going to be donated and the government counterpart contribution.”