CCC report on Western Power cheque disturbing: Ripper

17/12/04
Energy Minister Eric Ripper today said the Corruption and Crime Commission report on a 2002 payment by Western Power to the Australian Services Union was a disturbing insight into an arrogant management culture that once prevailed in the corporation.
Mr Ripper - who made the complaint to the Corruption and Crime Commission when the matter came to his notice - said the investigation was thorough and he was satisfied the commission had done everything possible to get to the truth.
"While the report is inconclusive in some respects, I remain of the view that the payment was not a proper use of public funds," he said.
"The report confirms the view I held when the Government came to office that Western Power needed to be exposed to the discipline of competition. I am shocked at the lengths to which some individuals apparently went in order to sabotage the reform program on which the Government was elected.
"Under new management, and in a more competitive environment, Western Power has been working hard to rebuild its public standing and renew its commitment to customer service.
"I am confident that Western Australians will not see a repeat of this kind of conduct.
"I call on the Leader of the Opposition - as a former Energy Minister - to join me in condemning the behaviour of those involved in this payment. It was not conduct that one should expect from officers in a Government-owned corporation."
Minister's office: 9222 8788