A bill has been published to establish an Anti-Corruption Authority. The Authority will have powers to investigate corrupt conduct, and refer matters to the Royal Gibraltar Police.
A bill has been published to establish an Anti-Corruption Authority. The Authority will have powers to investigate corrupt conduct, and refer matters to the Royal Gibraltar Police.
The bill creates a modern regulatory framework in all areas of public responsibility. It sets out in details the authority’s composition, duties, powers and functions, as well as provisions for conflicts of interest and confidentiality.
The Authority will be able to launch an investigation itself, or investigate a report made to it.
It can investigate fraud by abuse of position, bribery, misconduct in public office and cheating the public revenue whether or not the person being investigated is a public official.
The powers to investigate can also be used in relation to corrupt acts which took place before the law comes into force.
Following an investigation the matter can be referred from the authority to the Police. The RGP will then be able to use its full range of powers and expertise in bringing the matter to justice
The Bill also contains protection measures in respect of those who assist the authority with investigations, including employment protection.
Justice Minister Samantha Sacramento says the establishment of the Authority is another step towards implementing reforms to deliver more transparency and provide even more robust anti-corruption structures in public life.
And Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, says he is convinced that this is an issue that has to be addressed. He says the best way is to create a mechanism for reporting and investigation in a manner that will allow any properly founded allegations to be pursued and any ill-founded allegations to be discarded .
https://www.gbc.gi/news/anti-corruption-authority-bill-published
