Ex-uni boss to face ICAC over hotel sale
A former University of New England chancellor will face the NSW corruption watchdog over allegations he provided confidential information to an associate who was seeking to buy a university-owned hotel.
The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is set to examine the dealings between former chancellor John Cassidy and his business associate, Darrell Hendry, relating to the February 2006 sale.
"It is alleged that Mr Cassidy provided confidential and/or sensitive information, that he acquired in the course of his official functions as chancellor in connection with the sale of the Services UNE Limited-owned Tattersalls Hotel, to, or otherwise made use of the information for, the benefit of himself and Mr Hendry," ICAC said in a statement.
The commission is also investigating whether Mr Cassidy failed to disclose to the UNE council or any of its committees that Mr Hendry was planning to submit a tender for the hotel.
It will also inquire if Mr Cassidy misled the university's audit committee by claiming he had raised a possible conflict of interest.
"It is alleged that Mr Cassidy also did not disclose as soon as possible after the relevant facts became known to him, at a time before 5 February 2006 that he, or any entities associated with him, intended to acquire an interest in the Tattersalls Hotel with Mr Hendry or any entities associated with Mr Hendry," ICAC said.
Commissioner Megan Latham will preside over the public inquiry, which is expected to run for five days from July 21.
