Kerins resignation doesn’t make Rehab questions disappear – Harris

Fine Gael Wicklow/East Carlow TD and member of the Public Accounts Committee, Simon Harris TD, has today (Wednesday) said that Angela Kerins’ resignation from her role as CEO of Rehab leaves many questions unanswered.

“In my view, Angela Kerins’ resignation does not and must not preclude her from appearing before the Public Accounts Committee to deal with outstanding questions about the corporate governance structures within Rehab, which receives considerable public funds.

“Retired members of other organisations have previously appeared before the PAC. For example, the former Chief Executive of the Central Remedial Clinic, Brian Conlan, appeared before the Committee to answer questions after he had stood down from the organisation.

“PAC is also still seeking to speak to Frank Flannery, former Rehab board member, who stood down last month. The same standard must apply to Ms Kerins, regardless of her resignation.

“I met a Rehab staff member during the week, who told me she is embarrassed and ashamed to be working for the organisation, due to the series of revelations surrounding the salaries of senior executives.

“It’s very upsetting to see hard working Rehab employees feeling so compromised by the actions and inactions of senior executives. Rehab has a proud tradition of providing invaluable services in local communities. The organisation must now be allowed to get on with this good work by repairing its tarnished reputation.

“There is an onus on both the PAC and Rehab to do everything possible to address the outstanding concerns. I understand that Ms Kerins is due to work out a period of notice at Rehab. She has been invited to appear before the Committee next week, and I think it would be extremely helpful if this went ahead as planned.”

ENDS