Damion Mitchell, News Coordinator

The controversy at the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) over the dismissal of Executive DirectorErrol Greene has deepened with the resignation of four board members.

At the same time, Frank Phipps Q.C., the attorney representing Mr. Greene, is warning that he will be pursuing efforts to maintain his client's integrity.

"The defamation of his character has to be dealt with," Mr. Phipps said.

Board Chairman Ethlyn Norton-Coke reported that she tendered her resignation yesterday along with those submitted to her by deputy board chairman William Saunders and board members Delford Morgan and Milton Brown.

The four reportedly cut ties with the solid waste authority following differences with Environment Minister Dean Peart.

It is reported that their decision was fuelled by the minister's reneging on Mr. Greene's dismissal compensation package. Contacted yesterday, Mr. Peart reported that a one-month payment in lieu of notice was being withdrawn. However, he declined to comment further .

Comments rejected

Mr. Greene was reportedly dismissed from the NSWMA following an investigation into irregularities at the agency. In September, he was sent on leave to facilitate an investigation into the allegations.

The Environment Minister claims that the decision to send Mr. Greene on leave was taken by the NSWMA Board, but yesterday, board members rejected such comments.

The board wants Mr. Greene to remain at the agency. However, Mr. Peart is insisting that he must return to the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC) in his substantive post as town clerk.

Meanwhile, up to late yesterday, Mr. Greene was yet to receive his letter of dismissal from the board of the NSWMA. On Thursday, Mr. Peart said the letter had been sent to Mr. Greene.

He is expected to return to his post at the KSAC.