Media release – Rebecca White MP, Labor Leader, 20 January 2024
Where is the integrity, Premier?
The Rockliff Government has again demonstrated integrity is not high on its priorities list, failing to tell Tasmanians that it is without a head of agency for the Integrity Commission.
An advertisement published in the state’s papers today seeks expressions of interest for a suitably qualified person to be CEO of the Integrity Commission.
It is highly unusual for no statement to be made about this important position and for Tasmanians to find out through a job ad that the government is recruiting for this role.
The Rockliff Liberal Government is known for being secretive and integrity has never been high on its priority list. Being honest and transparent is almost like an afterthought for them.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff must explain the circumstances around this vacancy, why the CEO has decided to leave and whether there is an acting person in this role.
After 10 years of the Liberals, it is clear that this government is content with just sweeping things under the carpet rather than take accountability.
Tasmanians deserve better and only a Labor Government will provide it.
Media release – Greg Melick, TIC Chief Commissioner, 20 January 2024
Departure of Chief Executive Officer
Michael Easton has been with the Integirity Commission since 2015: originally as Director Operations; then Acting Chief Executive Officer for an extended period to 2017; and then as Chief Executive Officer from April 2020.
Michael has led the Commission’s move towards a less combative approach to the prevention of misconduct in the public sector.
The Commission remains strongly independent, however under Michael’s leadership it has sought to be an agent for change, using its investigations and research to bolster the Commission’s educative and preventative functions.
Michael has decided that, for personal and lifestyle reasons, the time is right to move to new opportunities.
Michael’s decision to move on is not linked to the recent Commission of Inquiry nor is there any reason other than his personal reasons for him to leave his position at the Commission. The current speculation for Michael’s departure is incorrect and unwarranted.
The Board is very satisfied with Michael’s performance as Chief Executive Officer over the past 4 years and wishes him well in his next endeavours.
