Independent MLA Thomas Emerson has joined calls for the Deputy Chief Minister, Yvette Berry MLA, to resign following an Integrity Commission finding that her former Chief of Staff engaged in serious corrupt conduct.

Quotes attributable to Mr Emerson:

"The Ministerial Code of Conduct states clearly that ministers are accountable for the decisions and actions of their staff, and are responsible for ensuring their staff comply with the Ministerial Staff Code of Conduct. It’s difficult to imagine a more egregious breach of these obligations than a minister’s most senior staff member engaging in serious corrupt conduct that’s potentially criminal in nature.

"Minister Berry either directed her Chief of Staff to engage in this conduct, knew about his conduct and failed to stop it, or didn’t know what he was up to at all. Each possibility is deeply concerning, and all are clear breaches of the Ministerial Code of Conduct.

"Given these facts, the Deputy Chief Minister should do the right thing today and step down.

"The Integrity Commissioner has acknowledged that the serious misconduct uncovered through this investigation would not have come to light without the evidence provided by a whistleblower who was willing to take the personal risk of exposing the truth in the public interest. This is why it’s critical to promote a positive “speak up” culture across government, and to ensure whistleblowers are supported to expose wrongdoing and corruption within government."