Londonderry MP Bart Bassett has been named the new chairman of the Police Integrity Commission (PIC) and the Crime Commission.
The PIC, which reports to Parliament, was established in 1996 on the recommendation of the Royal Commission into the NSW Police Service and works to prevent, detect and investigate serious police misconduct.
Mr Bassett was elected to Parliament in March 2011 but has been a long serving member of the Hawkesbury Council.
He said that the appointment is one that he takes very seriously.
“I am honoured to accept this position and continue the outstanding work of my predecessors,” Mr Bassett said.
“This is a very serious role and one which is very important to ensuring our fine NSW Police Force remains one of the most highly trained, efficient, well run and clean of misconduct in the world.
“It is crucial that the NSW Parliament adopts a zero tolerance against police misconduct – not only does the community demand it, it is the right thing to do.”
As an independent body from the NSW Police Force, other functions of the PIC relate to police activities and education programs and the collection of evidence and information.The PIC conducts research into serious misconduct and methods by which it may be reduced. It provides advice and recommendations to the NSW Police Force and the NSW Crime Commission as to how their capacities to minimise and prevent misconduct might be strengthened.
Mr Bassett began his tenure this week by meeting with key PIC stakeholders including Information and Privacy Commission chief executive Elizabeth Tydd and Privacy Commissioner Dr Elizabeth Coombs, Inspector of Custodial Services Dr John Paget, Police Integrity Commission Inspector David Levine.
“I have every confidence in the exceptional team we have overseeing the PIC and look forward to working with each of these experts,” Mr Bassett said.
