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Finance Minister says gov't stands behind selection of Dennis Chung to head FID

Halshane Burke reports
 
Finance Minister Fayval Williams has labelled as both reckless and dangerous calls for the government to insert itself into the meritorious process that led to the appointment of Dennis Chung as head of the Financial Investigations Division (FID). 
 
Mr. Chung, who is a chartered accountant, is to take up duties on Monday, June 2. 
 
But the announcement of his appointment as Chief Technical Director has been marred in controversy, with the parliamentary opposition calling for it to be rescinded and civil society groups calling for transparency on the selection process.
 
Mrs. Williams noted that the selection process was transparent and included an advertisement and interviews with oversight from the Office of the Services Commission.
 
She said the government stands firmly behind the selection of Mr. Chung on the basis that due process was observed.
 
Meanwhile, the finance minister said describing Mr. Chung as just an accountant demonstrates ignorance as it pertains to the competency and skillset required for the position.
 
She argued that those questioning the appointment should do a search that will indicate that to become the head of a financial investigation division, you'll need a strong combination of education, experience and skills.
 
This, she said, typically involves a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as accounting, finance, law or a related area along with at least seven to ten years of experience in areas such as auditing, financial analysis or investigations.
 
The finance minister said Mr. Chung possesses ample relevant education, experience and skills for this position. 
 
The parliamentary opposition has said it is against the appointment based on his qualifications as well as public comments by Mr. Chung defending Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness in relation to his financial affairs, which have been referred to the FID for further investigation.


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