Strickland Refutes Media Claims

Angry and upset is how John Strickland responded to Tuesday’s front page article in the CI News entitled “Audit looks into claimed Chinese car kickbacks.” CI News made reference to Audit looking into whether another vehicle in the possession of John Strickland, former project manager for CIIC’s stadium construction project may also have Chinese connections.
The article was in fact in relation to an investigation by Audit as to the possession and ownership of a vehicle reportedly purchased by the Chinese but still in the possession of John Tini the suspended CEO of CIIC.
“This insinuation in the statement by CI News has tarnished my reputation,” said Strickland, “and given the general public the impression that I may have also been involved in some shady deals because of my involvement with the construction of the Police Headquarters and the stadium project both involving the same Chinese Construction Company.”
“I wish to place on record that the vehicle in question is registered in both my name and my wife’s name and was purchased by us in 2006 from Pickering Motors at a cost of $31,000 following the sale of my wife’s former vehicle and our own personal funds. I have a copy of the receipt to prove that we actually paid for the vehicle so I don’t know where CI News and Audit got the impression that there is a “Chinese connection” regarding the ownership of my personal vehicle.”
“This is terribly embarrassing for myself and my family and has potential implications on my future integrity in my role as Inspector with the Cook Islands Police.”
“I have no idea why Audit or CI News did not seek my opinion or views first opting instead to sensationalize a story currently under investigation involving the suspended CEO of CIIC. I believe Audit is trying to identify and establish some evidence to link me to the Chinese because of the Audit investigation currently in progress and my previous relationships with the Chinese.”
“If this is true, then I am deeply saddened that Audit is resorting to this level of investigation and that I have been basically “convicted and hung” through the media without any right of redress. I think the approach taken by Audit borders on heavy handed tactics and they may well have exceeded their authority under the PERC Act.”
“I have sought legal advice with the intention of laying a formal complaint against CI News about concerns relating to statements made without confirmation of the facts and will be seeking a public apology from both organizations. This also doesn’t mean that this will be the end of the matter as I will also be pursuing other legal options in order to seek redress.”
“For now, the key thing for me is to clear my name as the media statement has affected myself, my family and my extended family. The callous manner in which the insinuation has been made is in my view, well below the belt, totally unnecessary and very unprofessional. I would like to see those responsible taken to task to ensure that others do not become victims to this type of media nonsense.”
“On a personal note,” said Strickland, “my relationship with the Chinese has been on a professional basis at all times and I have enjoyed my working association and business links with them resulting in the development of networks and personal friendships with some of the senior officials of the Chinese construction company involved. They are lovely to work with and I would have no hesitation in maintaining ongoing links with them on both a professional and personal level in future.”

Herald Issue 463 10 June
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