Newport MP writes to minister in wake of drainage board scandal (From South Wales Argus)

Newport MP writes to minister in wake of drainage board scandal

9:40pm Tuesday 30th October 2012 in News By Keiligh Baker

NEWPORT West MP Paul Flynn has sent an open letter to John Griffiths AM, Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development, following the Caldicot and Wentlooge Drainage Board scandal.

Mr Flynn has previously called for police to re-open the investigation into the quango, which was slammed in an auditor’s report.

The Wales Audit Office’s report into the Caldicot and Wentlooge Drainage Board revealed thousands of pounds had been spent on trips abroad for members, its former most senior member of staff Dean Jackson-Johns had been overpaid and that the Newport-based body had acted unlawfully on occasions.

In his open letter, Mr Flynn said: "A failure to pursue Mr Jackson-Johns sends a very dangerous message and precedent to others that may be in similar situations", Mr Flynn added that he is hoping to take this matter up with the Crown Prosecution Service. In his letter, Mr Flynn added that work carried out by the Board on the property of members of the board and management needs to be looked in to.

Mr Flynn finished his letter to the Welsh Minister by saying he believes there is need for national action to ensure that the practices of the Caldicot and Wentlooge Levels Drainage Board are not widespread.