On 15 December 2020, I issued a notice of intention to suspend the Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIRC) for a period of three months, following the findings and recommendations of the independent audit of the NIRC's governance, operations, financial performance and financial sustainability.
I have considered a submission from the NIRC received from the Mayor, Ms Robin Adams, on 8 January 2021, alongside criteria I am required to consider under the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) (NI).
Yesterday, I signed an order suspending the NIRC for three months and appointing Mr Michael Colreavy as interim administrator of the NIRC during its suspension.
During the suspension, the day-to-day functions of the NIRC will continue under direction of the General Manager, and the Australian Government will continue to provide financial support to the NIRC for payment of immediate critical priorities, such as staff salaries.
In coming to this decision, I have formed the belief that the appointment of an interim administrator is necessary to restore the proper or effective functioning of the council.
I will continue to keep you informed as further decisions are made.
A short fact sheet on the temporary suspension process, along with the independent audit reports, can be found on the department's website at www.regional.gov.au/territories/norfolk_island/governance/nirc.aspx.
