NT ICAC Commissioner vows to restore confidence in office

Commissioner’s pledge following ongoing ICAC criticisms: ‘I have to rebuild any lost trust and confidence in my office’. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

THE ICAC Commissioner said Territorians are wary of reporting to the corruption watchdog following a series of scandals from the office.

In a video message to NT public servants on Thursday, Commissioner Michael Riches said it was “foolish” not to recognise that criticisms of the ICAC had hurt the office’s reputation.

In the 45-minute video , Mr Riches acknowledged issues with the ICAC prior to him taking the Commissioner’s role in July 2021.

The ICAC has been in the shadow of a controversial Darwin Turf Club report, including an investigation by Bruce McClintock into the publication of incomplete texts from the NT News editor, allegations of leaks within the office,an apology for covert recordings by investigators, and a calls for a parliamentary review of the ICAC Act.

Mr Riches said he would not comment on the criticisms since they related matters under his predecessor.

NT Independent Commissioner Against Corruption Michael Riches. Picture: Supplied

“It would be foolish of me not to acknowledge that this office has been the subject of criticism,” Mr Riches said in the video.

“I will say this, I acknowledge that mistakes have been made.

“We have learnt a great deal from what has transpired.”

He said it was critical that the office of the ICAC had a strong reputation in order to function.

“I rely on public officers and members of the public to come forward and report to me matters of impropriety in public administration so that I may consider and take appropriate action,” Mr Riches said.

“If I do not know, I cannot act.

“I have no doubt that at least for some people their willingness to come forward and report matters to me has been influenced by criticism that have been made about my office.

“That is, of course, a great concern of mine.

“I do not underestimate the responsibility I have to rebuild any lost trust and confidence in my office.”

This is not the first time Mr Riches has vowed to restore public confidence in his organisation, with a public statement released in August.

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO HERE