Police investigate Thompson

Good God. The State Services Commission announced yesterday that it has referred Mary-Anne Thompson to the Police in reference to her claimed academic qualifications.

If this is correct, it is very concerning, and even sadder.

Meanwhile The Press covers the cover-up:

In Parliament, Acting Immigration Minister Michael Cullen admitted the Government found out about the allegations against Thompson in April 2007, but said it was a matter for the department’s chief executive. …

Immigration Minister Clayton Cosgrove is overseas but said through a spokesman that he became aware of the allegations against Thompson only when he was briefed by Blake in December. “He did express his concern about it (to Blake), but he cannot get involved in an employment matter.”

While the Minister can not direct the CEO to take action against any individual staff member, a Minister could very easily say that he regards the situation as totally unsatisfactory, wants action, will make the report public etc etc.

Oh yes. Ministers can only get involved when a staff member has a boyfriend who works for National. But hey having staff in a Department break policies, intimidate staff and give preferential treatment to family members is not something they can get involved in.