Defence Force Release Findings Of Investigation Into Employment Of Mr Stephen Wilce

The New Zealand Defence Force has released the findings of its Court of Inquiry into aspects related to the employment of the former Director of the Defence Technology Agency Mr Stephen Wilce.

A Court of Inquiry was ordered by the Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae, to look into 15 specific questions relating to the employment of Mr Wilce after allegations in the media called into question Mr Wilce’s qualifications and integrity. Mr Wilce has already resigned from the NZ Defence Force.

Lt Gen Mateparae says the Court of Inquiry carried out a thorough investigation and concluded that Mr Wilce has represented his work history, military career, achievements, academic qualifications and activities in other fields in a way that has been neither honest nor complete.

“Not only have his actions damaged his reputation, they damaged the morale of those he led at the Defence Technology Agency, and they have damaged the reputation of the New Zealand Defence Force,” says Lt Gen Mateparae.

However, in respect of his recruitment, it appears Mr Wilce’s failings were almost entirely those of omission. Although the Court of Inquiry finds that some of his embellishments were misleading, there is no evidence that he lied about his qualifications.

“The bulk of his untruths arose during the period he was already employed by us. While telling lies in one’s day-to-day life is reprehensible, further elements are required before it becomes a crime. However, in order to promote public confidence in public administration and the administration of justice, I have made a copy of the report available to the Police so that they can reach an independent assessment as to whether any charges are warranted.”

Lt Gen Mateparae says while Mr Wilce must accept much of the responsibility for these events, the New Zealand Defence Force must also bear its share of responsibility. He has highlighted poor performance by the Defence Force in the recruitment process; granting of security clearances; and in it’s response to concerns raised, as contributing factors.

“I have accepted the findings and recommendations of the Court of Inquiry and directed that changes be made as a matter of urgency. What is abundantly apparent is that the Defence Force placed trust in the reliability of Mr Stephen Wilce. The report of the Court of Inquiry demonstrates that this trust was almost entirely misplaced,” says Lt Gen Mateparae

ENDS

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