Former Opposition Senator Janelle John-Bates says she remains committed to public service despite her departure from the Senate. She said for now her focus will be on family, faith, her legal practice and community work.
Her comments came after Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles said John-Bates’ political career had not ended with her removal from the Upper House, noting that her absence from the Senate did not rule out a future return.
Responding to questions from the Express yesterday about her plans following her replacement, John-Bates expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
‘I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity I had to serve in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago. Public life is a privilege, and I will always value the experience, the lessons learned, and the people I was able to serve,’ she said.
Asked about Beckles’ assertion that her political career was not over, John-Bates said any decision regarding a future Senate appointment rested with the Opposition Leader.
‘As it relates to any future appointment to the Senate, I respect that those decisions are for the Leader of the Opposition. I am grateful for the opportunity she gave me to serve, and my commitment to public service remains,’ she said.
Youth development
While she stopped short of discussing any political future, John-Bates outlined several areas she intends to prioritise in the months ahead.
‘For now, my immediate focus is on my family, my faith, and my legal practice. I also look forward to continuing my involvement in community and youth development initiatives, including work with organisations and causes that invest in young people, such as MindsOf TT and the St Joseph’s Convent Past Pupils’ Association. I intend to dedicate more time to long-distance running as well, which has always been an important source of balance for me.’
John-Bates said there were many avenues through which individuals could contribute to the country’s progress.
‘There are many ways to contribute to national development, and I remain committed to doing my part,’ she said.
John-Bates was replaced in the Senate by attorney Dr Margaret Satya Rose on Friday, more than a month after she offered her resignation to Beckles.
The decision to replace John-Bates came after she became embroiled in controversy in April when it was discovered that, while a member of the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC) and during an enquiry into the acquisition of pharmaceuticals for the public health service, she had assisted former health minister Terrence Deyalsingh in editing his statement that was to be submitted before the committee.
She was referred to the Parliament’s Privileges Committee over the matter by Government senator David Nakhid; however, she faced no investigation after the matter effectively lapsed with the end of the First Session of the 13th Republican Parliament on May 22.
