SOCIAL SERVICES URGE THAT ANY INFORMATION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO POLICE Govt suggests political motive behind comments
The Social Services Agency has issued a statement, in relation to the recent allegations and comments being made concerning the Dr Giraldi Home, which reiterates that it has “always acted swiftly and responsibly whenever allegations of neglect or abuse have been made”.
The statement says that all cases have been properly investigated, and, depending on the circumstances of each case, appropriate action taken, even dismissal.
“On another occasion, a case has been referred to the RGP for an investigation. In that case the RGP determined that there was inconclusive evidence to take the matter further. Notwithstanding this, managerial action was taken to safeguard the interests of the service-users.”
The Agency declares that the proper independent body to conduct enquiries in allegations of misbehaviour that would amount to a criminal offence, such as is being alleged, is the RGP.
“Any citizen who believes that any such offence has or may have been committed by employees of the Agency is duty bound to report the matter to the Police, and should do so,” it said.
Meanwhile, both the Government and the Social Services Agency said they have so far declined to comment on this matter in order not to interfere with the due process of the Tribunal.
But they claim that “self-serving and misleading comments” are being made which are having a serious demoralising and frustrating effect on staff, service-users and parents as well as causing concern in the community and therefore the Agency feels “compelled to deny the false, unjustified and pernicious statements that are being made”.
The Government and the Agency insinuate in their statements that such remarks are linked to the fact that Joe Bossano, Opposition Leader, represents Johanna Hernandez in the Industrial Tribunal hearing, in which she is challenging her dismissal and where she claims to have been a whistle blower.
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