Likely the three stalwarts on Goanet who live there, know what is best for Goa as expressed in their opinions on this thread. Yet, I have to I disagree with the logic regarding this topic "Conflict of Interest". Whom would Rajan like to see on Regional Plan committee? And what should / would their qualifications be? If the individuals are knowledgeable about the issues, in all probability they have made it their specialty; and have an interest to see the project be designed right and be successful for the benefit of all. In the long run only if a project is a win-win-win situation, will there be long-term growth and fame for ALL who participated in the committee. Would one exclude physicians from planning of a hospital because they have a vested interest in the hospital? Or would one want to use the vested interests of all parties concerned to assure that the project is a success for all? When there is a vested interest, it is important that this is public knowledge. This specially applies to members of the Task Force to know the conflict of interest (and factor that in) when listening to those with the interest. At best, the person with the conflict should not cast a vote on the issue which (specifically) affects them personally. In the example that Rajan cites, the solution may be: To design and construct properly rather than freeze (construction for 5 years); which perhaps may be the response of an individual that is short-sighted or unwise or undiscerning and serves on the committee becasue all the experts are excluded. Some of the people who fit this bill are policitians who are only looking at the next election. I personally would want all "members of the Task Force wrestle with" solutions satisfactory to all parties concerned. Regards, GL -------------- Floriano
I totally and absolutely agree to what Rajan has put down. In other words what it means is: "If you are a part of the problem, you cannot be included in the team that is seeking the solutions to that problem". Period. ------------- Samir Kelekar Rajan, I agree with you about what you said as a general principle, but there can be exceptions to the rule. Even with zero business from Goa, Dean can make enough money with business from outside Goa. In fact, I believe it is our privilege that Dean is in Goa. He doesnt need Goa, so much as Goa needs Dean. Do you have evidence that Dean has used his position in the task force to further his business? ------------- Rajan writes: In situations involving potential conflict of interest, it is proper to recuse oneself. This is a general principle, and should apply to everyone. As a practicing architect, it is a legitimate question to ask how the Regional Plan will benefit his business. The same should be asked of Ritu Prasad. If the consensus tomorrow is (for argument's sake) that all construction in Goa should be frozen for 5 years so that we can assess and reverse the damage, would an architect who will see a dramatic drop in his or her earnings support it? These are not issues you want a member of the Task Force wrestling with.
