2024-06-28
The ACT Greens say the first finding of corrupt conduct made by the ACT’s Integrity Commission is a victory for transparency, but accountability must follow to restore the community's trust.
“This is a very serious finding. A lot of Canberrans hold CIT pretty dear in their heart - we treasure it as an institution - and to know that corrupt conduct has misused community funds is incredibly disappointing,” said ACT Greens Leader Shane Rattenbury.
“The Greens proposed an Integrity Commission for the ACT at the 2016 election exactly for this reason – to investigate and expose corruption. Now the Commission is up and running and it's made a finding of serious corrupt conduct, we must ensure accountability,” said Andrew Braddock MLA, ACT Greens spokesperson on democracy, integrity and community engagement.
“Resigning from your position should not let you escape consequences for a violation of the ACT Public Service code of conduct or even the Financial Management Act.
“A finding of serious corrupt conduct has been made. Ms Cover can and should be held accountable for her actions.
“A good start could be recovering those parts of her salary that she was paid while under investigation,” Mr Braddock said.
“The ACT Integrity Commissions Special Report – Operation Luna (part one) demonstrates the value of a statutory independent office to investigate and report on integrity matters.
“Whilst understanding there will be more to come from the Integrity Commissioner on this matter, the Greens welcome this first detailed report being publicly released,” said Mr Braddock.