A LOCAL councillor investigated for an alleged breach in the code of conduct for leaking confidential documents has been exonerated and is fighting to make the report that proves his innocence public.
Gawler councillor Ian Tooley was recently investigated by SA Ombudsman Wayne Lines after a complaint went to the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption (ICAC). The complaint alleged Cr Tooley had leaked a confidential CEO PMP document to the media relating to CEO Henry Inat’s proposed pay rise and contract extension.
Cr Tooley said the findings of the ombudsman report were a “weight off” his shoulders.
“I have been put through the mill since January and if you have ever had to be investigated by the ombudsman on behalf of the ICAC commissioner that is not a trivial matter. That is something that can completely rock your socks and it’s a very scary process,” he said.
“I have been the subject of rumours out there in the community and my reputation defamed.
“I have been exonerated and I just want council to do the right thing and table the report. It’s a good news story.”
Gawler Mayor Karen Redman blocked Cr Tooley’s request to have the report tabled at council’s June meeting.
“The motion referred to sought to have the council table a document that, as a matter of law and fact, it is unable to,” Ms Redman said.
“However, I understand from Cr Tooley that he has received confirmation from the ombudsman’s office that he may table the document.
“I am more than happy for Cr Tooley to seek to table the report as provided by council’s procedures and as determined by council at the relevant meeting.”
The person responsible for leaking the confidential documents remains unknown.