An important aspect of accountability and transparency is a mechanism to enable all individuals to voice concerns internally in a responsible and effective manner when they discover information which they believe shows serious malpractice.

Our whistle blower policy is therefore fundamental to the organization’s professional integrity. In addition, it reinforces the value the organization places on staff to be honest and respected members of their individual professions. It provides a method of properly addressing bona fide concerns that individuals within the organization might have, while also offering whistle blowers protection from victimization, harassment or disciplinary proceedings.

It should be emphasized that the policy is intended to assist only those individuals who believe they have discovered malpractice or impropriety. It is not designed to question financial or business decisions taken by the organization nor should it be used to reconsider any matters which have been investigated under the harassment, grievance or disciplinary policies and procedures.

Fundamental elements of our Whistle Blower Policy are highlighted below:

• All staff are protected from victimization, harassment or disciplinary action as a result of any disclosure, where the disclosure is made in good faith and is not made maliciously or for personal gain.
• All disclosures are required to be made in writing.
• Disclosures made anonymously are not entertained.
• Disclosures made are investigated fully including interviews with all the witnesses and other parties involved.
• All whistle blowers’ disclosures made are treated as confidential and the identity of the whistle blower is protected at all stages in any internal matter or investigation.
• Disciplinary action (up to and including dismissal) may be taken against the wrongdoer dependant on the results of the investigation.
• There are no adverse consequences for anyone who reports a whistle blowing concern in good faith. However, any individual found responsible for making allegations maliciously or in bad faith may be subject to disciplinary action.

During the year no whistle blowing incidence was reported under the mentioned procedure.