PSOW announced last week that an independent review will take place to provide assurance that there has been no bias in its decision making and that the organisation continues to deliver an independent, fair and impartial service. This follows the recent resignation of a member of staff following inappropriate and unacceptable social media posts.
I recognise that it is essential that this review has the confidence of the Senedd and stakeholders across local government. Whilst I remain confident that James Goudie KC would have carried out the review with integrity, impartiality and professionalism, it is evident that concerns have been expressed by several people.
I have listened to these views and have concluded that to continue would lead to a lack of confidence in the review and its findings. I have therefore reconsidered the appointment and will be seeking another person to lead this work instead.