Probe shrouded in mystery
An investigation into a top Ministry of Health executive who oversaw some of the sector’s largest capital projects is thought to include tendering processes.
As critical projects director for the ministry, Michael Hundleby has overseen significant hospital redevelopment projects in Christchurch, Dunedin and Greymouth.
Multiple sources have told The Press he has been placed on ‘‘gardening’’, or paid leave while an investigation is carried out. This is believed to be internal, as neither the State Services Commissioner or the Serious Fraud Office are involved.
It is understood the scope of the investigation includes how work was contracted out. However, the ministry refused to release any details of the investigation, or confirm one existed, saying it did not comment on individual employment matters.
Last year, the Otago Daily Times reported Hundleby had drafted in a Christchurch project management firm, Proj-X Solutions, to work on the redevelopment of Dunedin Hospital without going through a tender process.
It is not known if this relates to the investigation. Proj-X director Bryan Spinks said, as a contractor to the ministry, he was bound by a confidentiality clause. However, he said neither he nor Proj-X was ‘‘part’’ of an investigation, nor had the ministry approached him about Hundleby as part of one.
Ministry of Health procurement is guided by a number of principles including fairness. The ministry website states there should be ‘‘full and fair opportunity for domestic and international suppliers’’ and ‘‘open, effective and fair competition between suppliers’’.
Proj-X specialises in the health sector and has been involved in a number of major projects, including the redevelopments of Hutt Hospital and Burwood Hospital. It is also involved in a detailed business case for the relocation of specialist mental health services from Princess Margaret Hospital to the Hillmorton Hospital campus.
Hundleby declined to comment when approached by The Press yesterday. Last year, he told the Otago Daily Times Proj-X had significant experience with major hospital redevelopments and the firm was hired without a tender process because of ‘‘specific expertise and timing’’.
It is understood Hundleby has been on leave since early June. He is listed in attendance at a meeting of the Southern Partnership Group, set up to oversee the redevelopment of Dunedin Hospital, on May 29, but was absent for the next meeting on June 26.