ICAC Hears Allegations of Favoritism and Surveillance at Parramatta Council

The Independent Commission Against Corruption concluded public hearings this week into conduct at the City of Parramatta Council. The inquiry examined allegations that former chief executive Gail Connolly and a group of associates directed hiring decisions toward preferred candidates and directed monitoring of councillor communications.

Evidence included claims that recruitment processes were altered to favor certain applicants. The inquiry also heard testimony about monitoring of councillor emails and phone records, forged signatures on documents, and distribution of an anonymous email targeting a council driver.

Other allegations involved sham investigations into staff conduct and payments made to employees viewed unfavorably by council leadership. The commission has not issued findings on any of the claims.

Connolly appeared as a witness for seven days.

Transcripts show she responded "can’t recall" or "don’t recall" at least 440 times when asked about past events. She attributed the responses to the passage of time. Lawyers representing former staff questioned her on whether she accepted findings of misconduct, dishonesty, or conduct above the authority of elected councillors.

Connolly rejected most of the suggestions put to her. She acknowledged sending some indiscreet text messages and sharing information that should have remained confidential.

Thornton, identified as one of Connolly’s associates, told the commission she helped three acquaintances obtain council jobs through an improper process. Thornton stated she expected to lose her job over the matter. Commissioner John Hatzistergos will now review the evidence presented during the 24-day inquiry.