The AP reported on the NHTSA & Fiat Chrysler approved “Independent” Monitor.
“Fiat Chrysler, also known as FCA, is under an order from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to hire an independent monitor to oversee the company’s recalls in response to misbehavior involving 23 recalls. The safety administration selected Slater from a list of three candidates supplied by Fiat Chrysler. The decision was announced by the automaker on Friday.
Gordon Trowbridge, a spokesman for NHTSA, said Slater had disclosed his representation of Takata, but the safety administration and Fiat Chrysler decided it wasn’t a problem….
Safety advocates say Slater’s representation of Takata is a clear conflict of interest.
“You can’t have someone overlooking their recalls that also represents a company that makes defective parts,” said Clarence Ditlow, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety. “You can’t have someone who has two masters, and Slater has two masters.”…
Joan Claybrook, who headed the traffic safety administration under President Jimmy Carter, said she strongly disagreed with NHTSA’s decision to appoint Slater.
“Chrysler has hired Slater because they want a yes man,” said Joan Claybrook, a safety advocate. “This completely undercuts the important work NHTSA has done in showing Chrysler has violated safety recall rules. There is a clear need for an independent monitor.”
Slater is a partner with Washington lobbying and law firm Squire Patton Boggs. Congressional lobbying disclosure reports show the firm has been paid more $1.3 million since December to represent TK Holdings Inc., Takata’s parent company. The reports list Slater as lobbying Congress and the Transportation Department on air bag issues.“ See: http://www.salon.com/2015/10/23/fiat_chrysler_independent_monitor_also_lobbies_for_takata/
Instead of a safety Vision Zero goal for preventing fatalities, DOT has a Vision for producing BIG Bucks $$$.
Lou
