The New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) inquiry into matters concerning the City of Parramatta Council is expected to conclude its public hearings today, bringing to a close a six-week examination of allegations involving former chief executive Gail Connolly and a number of current and former council officials.
Much of the recent attention has focused on Ms Connolly’s evidence, with the final day expected to include the continuation of her cross-examination by Arthur Moses SC, appearing for the council, along with questioning from other legal representatives participating in the inquiry.
Throughout the hearings, ICAC has heard evidence relating to a range of issues, including recruitment processes, staff monitoring practices, the handling of confidential information and decision-making within the council. Ms Connolly has denied any wrongdoing and has maintained that her actions were undertaken in response to what she described as governance concerns within the organisation.
The inquiry, known as Operation Navarra, has received evidence from numerous current and former council employees and has examined allegations that certain official processes may not have been followed appropriately. Those allegations have been contested during the hearings, and ICAC has not yet made any findings.
Following the conclusion of the public hearing phase, the Commission will review the evidence and submissions presented before determining whether any findings or recommendations should be made.
ICAC’s findings are expected to be released at a later date. Until then, the matters examined during the inquiry remain allegations, and no adverse findings have been made against any individual by the Commission.