Le Hunte: WASA CEO probe ongoing

PUBLIC Utilities Minister Robert Le Hunte says the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) CEO was sent on vacation leave because of an investigation into allegations that he had taken actions without approval from the board's commissioners.

He was responding to a question in the Senate Tuesday from Opposition Senator Wade Mark, who asked about reports tht the CEO had been sent on leave with immediate effect pending investigation into several "sensitive matters." Mark asked what was the nature of the matters.

Le Hunte said the matter was under investigation and the rules of natural justice must prevail.

"The investigation is not complete and I am thus unable at this time to further elaborate on this matter, and I will hope that I will not be called upon to do so."

Mark asked what was the time frame for the investigation and Le Hunte replied he could not give one, but it was in the interest of the company and all those concerned to have it done expeditiously.

"I assure that the board of commissioners at WASA is working to have it done as quickly as possible, while recognising that we need a process that needs to be fair and transparent to all."

He added that the CEO has been a long-standing member of the community who has served the country for a number of years.

"I prefer not to bring the matter in the public domain."

In December 2018 it was announced WASA CEO Dr Ellis Burris had been sent on leave because of an internal investigation.