Council staff step down after inquiry

Apr 17 2008 by Sian Watts, Rhymney Valley Express

THREE Caerphilly County Borough Council officials have resigned following an internal investigation.

A spokesman confirmed the unnamed workers have stepped down as an investigation continues into the tendering of gas contracts.

Newspaper articles in January reported Cris Davies, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s chief housing officer, was one of a number of officers suspended as part of the investigation.

It is believed Mr Davies remains suspended.

He had no comment to make on the latest developments.

He said: “I cannot comment on the matter. You will have to ring Caerphilly council.”

A council spokesman said: “The authority can confirm that three members of staff have resigned. This matter is still the subject of an ongoing internal investigation and any decision to suspend employees is our standard employment practice when issues of this nature have been raised and in no way indicates any judgment on the matter.”

Gwent Police said it was not conducting any investigation at Caerphilly County Borough Council.

Gas contracts, like other services, are available for tender from councils. Procedures are in place for processes such as this.