Senior Deputy DPP tipped to become next Contractor General

Barbara Gayle and Damion Mitchell, Gleaner Reporters

Senior Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Dirk Harrison is tipped to become the next Contractor General.

The current contractor general Greg Christie is to leave office on November 30 after being in the post for seven years.

The Governor General is now in the process of selecting the new candidate on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.

Harrison who is described by his colleagues as a fearless prosecutor has been practising law for more than ten years.

He has appeared in many high-profile cases and prosecuted many corruption cases.

Harrison had successfully prosecuted the case of former Superintendent of Police Harry 'Bungles' Daley for breaching the Corruption Prevention Act.

Daley is appealing his conviction and sentence.

The outgoing contractor general had advised the Governor General Sir Patrick Allen earlier this year that he does not wish to extend his contract.

Francis Kennedy, president of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce is reported to have said recently that the new contractor general must be able to balance facilitating growth and investment, while at the same time continue to minimise corruption.

Christopher Zacca, president of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica wants the new candidate to be fearless, incorruptible and be able command the respect of the Jamaican people.

Meanwhile, Carol Narcisse, the chairperson of the Jamaica Civil Society Coalition says the successor must continue the high standard of discharge of the legal authority that the office has.

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