Richard Gleeson
Northern News Services

NNSL (Jul 06/98) - More than 50 potential witnesses will be interviewed in preparation for the inquiry into a conflict of interest complaint against premier Don Morin.

The "significant" number of those already interviewed includes members of the government as well as present and past GNWT employees, said Robert Dunseith, counsel for the conflict of interest commission. "We're interviewing anyone who might have information touching on the terms of reference given by the commissioner," said the Edmonton-based lawyer.

The purpose of the interviews is to determine which people should testify at the inquiry into a complaint filed Feb. 16 by Hay River MLA Jane Groenewegen.

The complaint alleges Morin may have violated a section of the NWT Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act that deals with maintaining public confidence, impartiality and accepting benefits which could erode public confidence.

Though "generally satisfied" with the level of co-operation he's received during the interview process, Dunseith said not all of those requested have submitted to interviews.

Another pivotal element in the inquiry is documentary evidence.

"There's been one or two things that have delayed production of the documentation we've requested," said Dunseith.

"We're working with people in the government to get the documentation and we're confident we will get it soon. But if our hopes are not fulfilled there's other ways to get it."

The commissioner has the authority to subpoena documents and witnesses for the inquiry. Dunseith has said the commission has the authority to require the government to provide any documentation it requires, including confidential cabinet memos.

Interviews with potential witnesses are scheduled to continue in Yellowknife next week. Dunseith said he hopes to wrap up the interview process by the third or fourth week of the month.

The commission is hoping to start and conclude the hearings before the fall sitting of the legislative assembly.