Operation Cavill public notice

Wednesday 19 June 2013

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is investigating a number of allegations involving the current mayor of the City of Ryde, Councillor Ivan Petch, and others. The matters being investigated include the alleged release of confidential council information by Councillor Petch on many occasions for various reasons, including in an attempt to undermine council employees, such as the former General Manager, Mr John Neish.

The Commission is also investigating an allegation that Councillor Petch played a role in an offer conveyed to Mr Neish that his employment would be secure if he could delay consideration of the proposed redevelopment of the Ryde Civic Precinct. A further attempt by Councillor Petch to influence a decision required to be made by the acting general manager of the council is also being investigated.

The Commission is also investigating allegations that Councillor Petch has failed to disclose financial relationships and potential conflicts of interest while serving as a councillor on the City of Ryde Council.

The Commission is also investigating an allegation that a corrupt offer was made to City of Ryde Councillor Bill Pickering by an employee of a local newspaper, The Weekly Times, to persuade Councillor Pickering to support a development application.

As part of its investigation, the ICAC will hold a public inquiry starting at 10:00 am on Monday 15 July 2013 at Level 7, 133 Castlereagh Street, Sydney.

Persons claiming to be substantially and directly interested in this matter may seek leave to be represented at the inquiry, and are invited to contact Mr Karl Prince on (02) 8281-5999 to advise of their interest.

Members of the public with information relevant to the investigation are encouraged to provide it in writing at GPO Box 500, Sydney, NSW 2001, or by facsimile (02) 9264-5364. The ICAC will treat all information confidentially and has legislative powers to protect people who provide information to the Commission.

Roy Waldon
Solicitor to the Commission