Although former independent senator Dr James Armstrong and attorney Roamar Achat-Saney, whose appointment to the Police Service Commission, faces a possible legal challenge, both accepted instruments to serve from President Anthony Carmona.They accepted their instruments during a brief ceremony at the Office of the President, in St Ann's, Port-of-Spain.With is majority in the House of Representatives, the government members approved Carmona's selection while the Opposition abstained from voting on November 12.
Former head of the public service Reginald Dumas has claimed Armstrong and Achat-Saney did not appear to meet the constitutional requirement for appointment. The two were nominated by Carmona after consultations with the prime minister and leader of the Opposition.Dumas said there was a requirement under the Constitution for members of the commission to be "qualified and experienced in the disciplines of law, finance, sociology or management."
Former president of the Law Association Dana Seetahal SC, also agreed there was a constitutional requirement for the composition of the commission to meet specific requirements.She said the issue that could arise was whether those requirements were mandatory, which was an arguable matter.
Queen's Counsel and former attorney general Karl Hudson-Phillips had also hinted at possible legal action challenging the validity of the commission if Parliament confirmed Carmona's nomination Armstrong and Achat-Saney to the commission.The three-year term of four commission members–Addison Masefield Khan, Martin Anthony George, Jacqueline Cheesman and Kenneth Parker–expired on July 20.
George and Khan were also appointed to serve another three-year term. Professor Ramesh Deosaran, who was appointed in April 2011, replacing Nizam Mohammed whose appointment was revoked, and would remain as chairman.On his reappointment, George said he felt happy that the commission was once again "back on track" and it could continue its work on various projects.Armstrong also expressed his gratitude at being able to serve T&T.
"One must also feel honoured when called to serve one's country. I have served in various countries and I have always put forward my best and this is what I also intend to do as a member of this commission," Armstrong added.Asked for his response to criticisms made by Dumas, Armstrong said, "I am here to do my best."
Achat-Saney, became qualified as attorney-at-law in 2012 and has a first degree in English literature and social sciences and a master's degree in Education. She was also principal of Fyzabad Composite School and an in-service trainee at the office of the attorney general.