President David Granger has commissioned a Board of Inquiry (BoI) to investigate alleged misconduct by staff of the Department of Public Service.
According to an announcement that was made yesterday by the Ministry of the Presidency, Minister of State Dawn Hastings-Williams has presented the Instrument of Appointment to Lance Carberry, who will be heading the BoI. Carberry has been given one week to present his findings to President Granger.
The statement came hours after Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency Joseph Harmon told a post-Cabinet press briefing that three workers, who are contracted employees, had been sent on administrative leave pending the outcome of the inquiry.
Hastings-Williams was reported by the ministry as saying that the president has directed that the BoI be commissioned to investigate the allegations of “misconduct, corruption and improper behaviour” against named public servants within the Department of Public Service.
“This is against the backdrop of purported services of certain staff within that Department and recent events, which have been reported in the media.
The BOI will advise the state on the veracity of allegations of corruption, misconduct and improper behaviour against the named staff and will additionally, make recommendations on any matter of concern arising from this investigation and make any recommendations as it deems fit and appropriate in the public’s interest,” she further said.
Additionally, the ministry noted that Hastings-Williams said the investigation will be done in a fair and professional manner and she is confident that an unbiased report will be presented to the government. However, she said it is important that witnesses cooperate with the Chairman of the Board and be open and honest in their interaction.
“I can assure the nation of the integrity of the Board.
They can expect a fair and unbiased report. This Inquiry, I am sure, will be conducted to the highest professional standards. It is vital for witnesses to give their testimonies. I urge all witnesses to cooperate. The Government will provide all resources necessary to support the work of the BoI,” the minister said.
