The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice Law and Human Rights has heard that the Code of Conduct Bill is too lenient on certain public office holders.

In his submission to the Committee in Savusavu yesterday, land developer Aren Nunnink says he is glad that the Bill – which was promised about four years ago – is now before the House.

However, he feels the Bill will not fulfil its promise.

Nunnik pointed out several provisions he feels need strengthening, some of which include the enforcement of the Code of Conduct as well as the investigation of complaints made under the Bill.

He says with the Bill comes the establishment of the Accountability and Transparency Commission, which he hopes will be able to carry out its roles independently.

“We would want to see that this particular Commission and this Bill enables this independent authority to properly enforce the provisions of the Code of Conduct.”

Committee Chair, Alvick Maharaj says they have taken into account the submission made and this will be included in their report back to Parliament.

The public consultation on the Bill continues in Suva next week.