08 October 2010
The Chief Minister has issued the report received from Brian Napier QC, who has reviewed the suspension process followed for the previous Chief Officer of Police, Graham Power.
Senator Terry Le Sueur commissioned the report in response to a proposition from the Deputy of St Martin, who wanted a Committee of Inquiry into the suspension process. Mr Napier is a Scottish advocate who specialises in Employment Law. He was selected by the Chief Minister and Deputy Bob Hill, from a list of specialists provided by ACAS.
The report was commissioned in March 2010, but due to delays in arranging interviews with those involved and Mr Napier’s other work commitments, it was not possible to complete the review in the original timescale. The final report was received on 13 September 2010 and a copy was provided to the Deputy of St Martin on 17 September 2010.
When the Chief Minister reviewed the report and conclusions reached by Mr Napier he felt advice was required before the report could be published.
Senator Terry Le Sueur said “I regret that it has taken longer than I originally envisaged to complete the report. I hope, now it has been published in its entirety, both States Members and the public will see that it is thorough and reaches a number of conclusions.
“Mr Napier was asked to examine the suspension procedure and to judge whether or not a Committee of Enquiry into the suspension of Mr Power was justified. Mr Napier concludes that his findings do not warrant a further inquiry in the interests of open government; and he states 'I do not see a need to investigate these matters further'."
Senator Le Sueur added “While he has highlighted procedural failings in the suspension process, Mr Napier found no evidence of a ‘conspiracy’ to oust Mr Power for some improper reason and I hope this allegation can now be put to rest.
“I have taken advice on all the conclusions and will be acting on that advice in the coming weeks. As was the case throughout Mr Power’s suspension, I intend to maintain confidentiality on this matter, and will ensure any individuals involved are treated with respect.
“I will not be making any further statement on the conclusions of the report until all internal matters have been completed.”
Read the Napier Report (government and administration section)
gov.je