Integrity in Public Life Bill out for public feedback

The government has released the Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill, 2024 for public feedback.

This development follows the Cabinet’s approval nearly a month ago. The updated Bill, published on July 24 in the government’s official newsletter, the gazette, aims to strengthen the Integrity in Public Life Act by expanding the powers of the Integrity Commission and introducing several significant changes.

The proposed amendments come in response to recommendations from an Independent Review conducted by attorney-at-law Denniston Fraser. Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley previously emphasised the importance of these changes.

Key changes in the Bill include the addition of Section 14A, which grants the Integrity Commission the power to impose fines of up to $5,000 on public officials who breach the Act’s provisions. The chairperson of the Commission will have the authority to issue these fines, serving as a deterrent against unethical behaviour in public office.

Other amendments

Other notable amendments include changes to Section 5 of the legislation, which now allows the Commission to “make inquiries and carry out investigations as necessary to verify and determine the accuracy of any declaration or statement of registrable interest” and to “examine the practices and procedures of public bodies to facilitate the discovery of corrupt practices.” These enhanced powers will enable the Commission to perform more comprehensive oversight.

The Bill also proposes amendments to the definition of “public body” to include Junior Ministers and the removal of the definition of “public officer.” Additionally, Section 4 has been amended to provide remuneration to members of the Integrity Commission, reflecting their critical role in upholding ethical standards.

The Cabinet’s approval on June 19 laid the groundwork for these amendments. The Cabinet also approved the Integrity Framework for the Cabinet, House of Assembly, public officers, and statutory boards.

This framework ensures that ethical standards are maintained across all government and public service levels. Furthermore, the Ministerial Code will be updated to align with the Cabinet Secretary’s recommendations and other inputs to strengthen the Code.

In addition to the amendments to the Integrity in Public Life Act, the House of Assembly is set to approve a Code of Conduct for its members through a resolution. A Committee for Standards will be established to oversee adherence to this Code.

A new Commissioner for Standards Bill will also be drafted, creating the role of a Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, who will promote, encourage, and safeguard high standards of conduct within the House of Assembly.

Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill, 2024