NTPA president Paul McCue says ICAC Commissioner Ken Fleming’s position is ‘untenable’

ICAC Commissioner Ken Fleming position is ‘untenable’ and his ‘grandstanding’ during NT Parliaments Estimates hearing was ‘disgusting’, according to the NT Police Association.

Independent Commissioner Against Corruption Ken Fleming QC poses for a photo in front of Parliament House in Darwin on Friday, August 31, 2018. Picture: Keri Megelus

ICAC Commissioner Ken Fleming’s position is “untenable” and his “grandstanding” during NT Parliament’s Estimates hearing was “disgusting”, according to the NT Police Association.

The statement released Friday morning condemned Mr Fleming for using a public platform to threaten to out a whistle blower who made a complaint about his own department.

NTPA president Paul McCue said Mr Fleming’s behaviour demonstrated “utter contempt for his own office and it appears he has clearly forgotten his own mission statement and ICAC values”.

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“The ICAC Commissioner’s appointment is now clearly untenable, and the fact he remains is a reflection on the weak leadership of Chief Minister Michael Gunner, who is the responsible Minister,” NTPA President Paul McCue said.

“The whole concept of protection of witnesses who come forward with allegations of corrupt behaviour is fundamental to the success of ICAC.

“But is seems when that whistleblower is complaining about the ICAC itself, they will be threatened with exposure by the Commissioner charged with protecting them.”

Chief Minister Michael Gunner said all parties should respect the formal investigation process.

“Everyone should respect the independence of the ICAC and refrain from commenting on any active investigation, including one being conducted by the ICAC Inspector,” he said.

“The matter referred to in Estimates is already being investigated by the ICAC Inspector.

“The matter upon which the comments were made is under investigation.

“As a government we must respect this process, and allow the ICAC Inspector to conclude his investigation without any interference.”

The ICAC has been contacted for comment.