Former ACT Labor Senator Kate Lundy will today take over as Chair of the CIT Board despite having presided over a number of questionable contracts awarded to one contractor in her position as Deputy Chair.

Canberra Liberals Leader Elizabeth Lee said it is astounding the Minister for Skills Chris Steel has failed to show any leadership and allowed his appointment of Ms Lundy to continue.

“The Deputy Chair was on the board for many of these contracts including the most recent for just under $5 million,” Ms Lee said.

“She was also on the board when it responded to the minister saying these contracts represented value for money.

“The Minister has stated previously that he has taken action and refreshed the CIT Board, but the appointment of the new Chair was made in May of last year.

“When writing to the board two weeks ago, the Minister said he was underwhelmed with their response but clearly not underwhelmed enough to take any real action.

“Since the issue was brought to light, Minister Steel has abdicated his responsibility and refused to take any responsibility despite becoming aware of the contracts over a year ago.

“Canberrans are rightly concerned about how their taxes are being spent by this Labor-Greens government and they deserve better,” Ms Lee concluded.