Several reviewers and investigators currently leading the relevant reviews, investigations and audits arising from the COI Recommendations have reported to His Excellency Governor John Rankin that they are facing difficulties in accessing the necessary documents from the public service.
It is stated in the Enhanced Monitoring Section of the Framework Document that these individuals must deliver written quarterly reports of their own to the governor, inclusive of an evaluation of progress made and the level of cooperation encountered.
Rankin said that despite the overall level of cooperation being satisfactory, he has “asked the Deputy Governor to remind public servants of the need to prioritise cooperation with COI implementation”.
The governor warned that “if there is evidence that access is being deliberately blocked, action will be taken in respect of the relevant officers”.
“I trust that this will no longer be a concern by the time of my next Quarterly Review”, he added.
Governor Rankin found that the work of some reviewers was delayed for several reasons, including delays to their appointment and or a lack of administrative support, evidenced by reports of difficulties in accessing documents.
Rankin reaffirmed that it is essential to the implementation of the COI recommendations that the reviewers receive all the necessary support and cooperation.
The establishment of the Implementation Unit and the full cooperation from ministers and the public service, he trusts, will change the time, and create an environment in which the reviewers can carry out their duties with the necessary support.
He noted that he will be closely monitoring progress in that regard.