21 Oct 2015

Investigate EQC nepotism allegations, says Labour

10:47 am on 21 October 2015

The Labour Party is calling for an independent inquiry into allegations of nepotism at the Earthquake Commission (EQC).

A sign expressing some people's attitude in Christchurch to the Earthquake Commission.

A sign expressing some people's attitude in Christchurch to the Earthquake Commission. Photo: RNZ

EQC general manager of customer and claims Gail Kettle resigned last week, just a month after her daughter Nikki Kettle stood down as an assessor.

The commission is refusing to comment on either resignation, apart from saying Nikki Kettle's was for personal reasons.

Radio New Zealand knows of two complaints against her as an assessor, including that she bullied claimants and gave them false information.

The outcome of these complaints has never been revealed by EQC.

Complainants also allege nepotism was involved in the decision to employ her as an assessor.

Labour Canterbury spokesperson Megan Woods said an inquiry was needed in order to give Cantabrians confidence that the commission was acting above board.

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