Questions have been raised by members of the Opposition over Fern Narcis-Scope's appointment to that role, as they claim she may be related to the Minister of Public Administration and Communications, Maxie Cuffie.

In a release on Sunday in response to statements made by Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley concerning consultation on the appointment, Mrs. Persad-Bissessar said, "There is no provision in law for the President to consult anyone on this appointment as the appointment of the CEO is not done by the President but by the Public Service Commission (PSC). "

She added, "As Opposition Leader, I was not consulted on the appointment of the CEO because, under the Constitution of Trinidad and Tobago, neither the President nor the PSC is required to consult me regarding the appointment.”

She said: "Had I been given the opportunity to review said proposal I would have carefully scrutinised the recommendation; however constitutionally I am not afforded that opportunity."