STATEMENT BY THE COUNTY MANAGER IN THE MATTER OF THE CASE BETWEEN GAMA INDUSTRIES LTD AND GAMA WORKERS

This matter has been raised again with me by Councillor M. Murphy and I wish to update you in relation to the actions taken by me in the matter of the case between GAMA Industries and GAMA workers and the involvement of a member of staff.

As you will be aware all matters in relation to staff are executive functions and in this regard the allegations made against a member of staff were fully investigated in accordance with the Councils Disciplinary Code of Practice which resulted in the individual being disciplined and redeployed.

The staff member in question gave evidence in a Turkish Court on behalf of a Turkish company, GAMA Industries and attended in a personal capacity and without the authorisation or knowledge of the Council. To ensure that the Council was legally represented in Turkey local legal representation has been engaged on the advice of the Law Agent and a statement has been issued through this representation confirming that the staff member did not have authorisation to attend or represent the Council. To date the Council has not received any request from the Turkish Court or any other parties to provide evidence. The Council will however assist the Court on receipt of any formal request for information relating to this matter.

Joe Horan

County Manager

20/9/2006