GSD says Govt 'stonewalling' watchdogs' calls for enhanced powers

The GSD says the Government is “stonewalling” the Public Services Ombudsman and the Principal Auditor in their calls for enhanced investigative powers.

This follows the Ombudsman's calls for legislation to allow her to launch investigations without first receiving a complaint.

The GSD points out that Parliament approved this in 2019 after a motion tabled by Shadow Public Finances Minister Roy Clinton, but the legislation has yet to be brought forward.

Mr Clinton says both the Ombudsman and the Principal Auditor are expressing their deep frustration with this GSLP/Liberal Government.

He says both watchdogs are now barking loudly and pulling at their leashes but the Chief Minister prefers them chained and muzzled, avoiding the transparency, accountability and good governance they are mandated to uphold.