On top of the cuts, the NT's Independent Commissioner Against Corruption also reveals a probe into claims someone misled cabinet had to be discontinued because of legislative restrictions.
The Northern Territory government's decision to cut funding to the anti-corruption watchdog will impact on its ability to perform its duties, ICAC boss Michael Riches has warned.Mr Riches said he's "disappointed" the government rejected a bid to increase fundingDuring last month's budget, the Office of the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption was allocated $5.4 million this financial year — $1.3 million less than the previous year.
Despite the funding challenges, he said the government had rejected a recent budget allocation submission he had made."The significant reduction from this year's budget will of course impact the discharge of my statutory functions."Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro told the hearing the government's budget cut "doesn't pass the pub test".
"The nature of the work that these types of investigative bodies undertake, does, from time to time, see the need for more expenditure, and we certainly support having an ICAC in the Territory," Ms Fyles told the hearing.Mr Riches said while he was "very grateful" for the opportunity to seek additional funding, he noted the importance of having experienced investigative staff on a permanent basis.
The claim was levelled against someone outside of cabinet, but Mr Riches said the ICAC Act prevented him from examining documents given to the decision-making body.
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