The ethics officer wants to wait until after the by-election to carry out the analysis the CAQ’s complaint against MP Pascal Bérubébecause he used his National Assembly email address to ask for help from PQ sympathizers in Jean-Talon.
According to the Ethics Commissioner, it is essential that a reasonably informed person does not see any interference or undue influence on their part in the ongoing electoral process.
No interference
“In order to avoid that her response to the request for an investigation is perceived in the eyes of the public as an element that could affect the current election campaign, and in view of the imminent vote, the Commissioner considers “It is appropriate to carry out the analysis postpone until the supplementary election has taken place in the Jean-Talon constituency,” said a press release on Friday.
The Ethics Commissioner received a request for an investigation on September 19 from Blainville MP Mario Laframboise.
He claims that Mr Bérubé violated Article 36 of the Code of Ethics of MEPs by using his email address as a MEP for partisan purposes.
The commissioner therefore refuses to examine the file until next month.
Effects
“The initiation or refusal of an investigation can have significant consequences, both in terms of the person making the request and the target person, as well as in terms of the political groups they represent.”
The Commissioner believes that waiting is the best way to maintain public trust.
For his part, Pascal Bérubé did not appreciate his opponent’s behavior.
“It’s ridiculous,” responded Mr. Bérubé, a member of parliament since 2007, who says he only has an email address.
“I think they hired the wrong person to file a complaint […] continue,” warned the member for Matane-Matapédia.
Jean Talon voters will be invited to the polls on October 2nd.
Can you share information about this story?
Write to us or call us directly at 1 800-63SCOOP.