Sarah Courtney’s relationship with her head of department has been found to have been a “minor” breach of the Code of Conduct.
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The results of two independent investigations into Ms Courtney’s relationship with Dr John Whittington was announced by Premier Will Hodgman in Hobart on Wednesday.
The first report, conducted by Damien Bugg QC found a “minor” breach of the Code of Conduct and the Premier decided the appropriate sanction was counselling, which was conducted.
Both Sarah Courtney and Dr John Whittington were interviewed as part of the investigation.
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The investigation found Ms Courtney should have alerted the Premier of the relationship earlier, on or around September 13 as it could be a “perceived conflict of interest.”
As a result, Premier Will Hodgman has announced Guy Barnett as the new Primary Industries Minister and Elise Archer will take on the Racing portfolio. Sarah Courtney will be Resources and Building Minister.
Mr Hodgman said all decisions made by the Premier and his secretary were reviewed independently.
The review into Dr Whittington’s conduct, Head of State Service Jenny Gale, found no wrongdoing done by the Dr Whittington.
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Political reporter for Australian Community Media, based in Hobart.
Political reporter for Australian Community Media, based in Hobart.
