MP ups heat on bully claims
Macquarie Point probe
THE government is waiting for a response from the Macquarie Point Development Corporation about claims of high staff turnover, bullying, manipulation and emotional abuse within the governmentowned business.
Independent member for Clark Kristie Johnston (pictured) raised fresh concerns in parliament on Tuesday about the management of the prime near-waterfront Hobart site.
She told State Development Minister Guy Barnett she wanted a response to questions she raised earlier this month.
“On the 5th of May I asked you were you aware that in 2019 the department was formally alerted to accusations of bullying, manipulation and emotional abuse from Macquarie Point Development Cooperation management towards staff,’’ said Ms Johnston.
“I asked if you are aware of claims that procurement practices are being manipulated to favour some providers and circumvent the Treasurer’s instructions.
“I’ve now been made aware that under the current CEO, nine out of 11 staff members resigned in the first 18 months of her tenure and in the last 12 months a further six have left.
“Furthermore, I’m told that she has never had a performance review.
“I understand the investigation (into) the latest bullying accusations (has) been completed but the board has not even seen the report.”
Mr Barnett said he was aware of the matters raised and was waiting to hear back from the corporation’s board.
“I wrote to the chair of the Macquarie Point Development Corporation and made some inquiries and attached the Hansard, which was what you put on the record and my response, and I’ve asked the chair for response to that,” he said.
“In terms of the workplace grievance dispute that was raised last time just to confirm what I’ve said previously, matters of this nature are subject to proper process and, as such, it is not appropriate for me to comment further on this.
“It’s a matter for the board and the corporation.
“These are operational matters. It’s not something that a minister or the government gets involved in.
“The CEO as you know, reports to the board and it’s a matter for the board.”