Hawkins welcomes closure of SFO investigation

Media statement
22 January 2013

Hawkins welcomes closure of SFO investigation

Hawkins Construction says it welcomes today’s announcement by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) that there are no grounds for criminal prosecution following the closure of its investigation into Hawkins’ substation project for Transpower and Vector in Hobson Street, Auckland.

Hawkins’ Executive General Manager Dan Ashby says: “We have maintained all along that there has been no intent to defraud by Hawkins or its employees, and are pleased that no evidence of wrongdoing was found. The SFO’s view that the issue is one of differing contractual interpretations is consistent with our own view.”

Mr Ashby says the SFO investigation, which commenced on 31 August 2012, has been an extremely challenging time for Hawkins.

“It’s been particularly difficult for our employees involved in the Hobson Street project, and clearly we are pleased it is over. Despite the distraction and stress the investigation has caused, we cooperated fully with the SFO and appreciate that they gave priority to the investigation, given the significant industry and public interest.”

Hawkins continued to work on the Hobson Street project during the course of the SFO investigation and, with the SFO investigation now over, is fully focussed on completing it.

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