The Fiji Sports Council Board is awaiting legal advice before deciding what findings from an independent forensic investigation can be publicly released.

Board member Peter Mazey says the extensive report covers more than 16 terms of reference and contains recommendations that require review by two separate law firms before any action is taken.

Mazey explains that the Board remains obligated to provide the full report to police under a search warrant, but legal guidance is needed to determine whether individuals named in the report can be identified publicly without exposing the Board to liability.

“The report is substantial and covers more than 16 terms of reference under the investigation. It was a full forensic review, not based on accusations, and its recommendations are now being assessed by two separate law firms before any decisions or possible actions are taken.”

He adds that while a separate investigation cleared Minister Jese Saukuru of any wrongdoing relating to Fiji Airways contra deals, the main report raises concerns around fiduciary responsibilities, internal policies and governance processes within the Council.

“The Minister was clearly cleared on the contra deals with the Fiji Airways. He had no knowledge of that being a contra situation and he was invited by the CEO at the time.
Now a lot of the report is all about you know fiduciary duties of people and that how you handle that is what we need legal information on because that really is internal issues comes under policy and processes that are within the council.”

The Board is expected to decide on the release of the report and any further action once the legal review process is complete.