SHINING A SPOTLIGHT

PINNACLE Integrity has been named as the firm which will undertake an independent investigation into the way complaints have been handled by Dubbo Regional Council (DRC) during this current term.

The move was sparked after seven councillors called on former mayor Ben Shields to resign after numerous allegations of misconduct were brought to the attention of his fellow elected members.

The motion passed on Tuesday evening read, in part, That Pinnacle Integrity be engaged to undertake the Independent Enquiry Investigation and that the report be made available publically, with the exception of Appendix 2 on the original report which must remain confidential.

On its website, the company labels itself “The Integrity Management Specialists” and states: “Pinnacle Integrity is able to promptly manage and resolve a range of issues from sex-based harassment, workplace grievances, bullying, sexual misconduct, corporate fraud and workplace injuries.

“We sensitively address issues, irrespective of the political, public or competitive environment. We have extensive experience working across the industrial landscape.

“We provide objective advice complemented by comprehensive, objective and independent reports provided to assist in resolving workplace issues and conflict,” the company states.

“Pinnacle Integrity reports highlight the level of professionalism and independence that demonstrate the critical procedural fairness and objectivity necessary in managing misconduct. Our reports are routinely presented in Federal and State industrial jurisdictions and Administrative Tribunals,” it says.

Pinnacle touts itself as having Local Government investigation specialists who have conducted scores of investigations for councils across NSW.

The company says its specialists have over 20 years’ experience working directly with councils and understand council governance and regulatory frameworks including Local Government Act 1993, Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 (NSW), Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979; Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 1988.

Mayor Cr Stephen Lawrence told the extraordinary meeting that the company came highly recommended.

At this stage, all matters remain under investigation and there is no suggestion that any negative findings have been reached.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED An independent investigator was appointed by Dubbo Regional Councillors at an Extraordinary meeting on Tuesday night to look into the organisation’s complaints processes during this term of council.