Inquiry into Serious Crimes had failed to directly address the Rebecca Middleton case.

This came out of a speech given by Mr. Moniz at a meeting of the Hamilton Rotary Club on Tuesday. His speech, entitled `Transparency and Accountability' discussed political accountability over a range of current topics.

In regards to the Inquiry into Serious Crimes, Mr. Moniz said: "I am shocked that the Commission are continuing to say that they don't have a mandate to look into the Middleton case.

"I have carefully read through the terms of reference and can say that rather than being prevented, they are required to look into it. It's why the Commission was appointed. I'm writing a letter to the Commission today to express that point of view.'' Also in his speech, Mr. Moniz commented on the Register of Members' Interests, which is now in effect.

As of November, all MPs will be required to complete the register to provide information regarding their business interests -- including employment, land ownership, company directorships, as well as declaring all shares over $50,000.

"Today was a day to celebrate,'' he said.

Mr. Moniz called on Minister of Development and Opportunity Terry Lister to clarify his position in respect to the position of the Portuguese within the new CURE legislation.

"I would call on the Minister to make clear his position. Is Dr. Hodgson speaking for the Minister -- because he certainly hasn't said she isn't,'' he said.

Mr. Moniz also raised the issue of long-term residents and the long-awaited Green Paper.

"The Green paper was supposed to be tabled by the last day of the summer. I say that it is green because it is mouldy from sitting on someone's desk for so long. Friday will be the last opportunity for government to keep their promise.'' Speaking in reference to the demolition of two historic slave houses at Hog Bay Park, Mr. Moniz spoke of the need to cultivate sensitivity toward archaeological and environmental sites.

He said: "We need a public response from the Minister of the Environment. He needs to explain to the public the mechanism put in place to prevent this from happening again. We need a greater sensitivity to what's around us of value.'' MURDER MUR CRIME CRM