Northland Polytechnic Investigates Media Claims

Northland Polytechnic Investigates Media Claims

Northland Polytechnic is carrying out an internal investigation into media allegations that one of its lecturers had previous, undisclosed criminal convictions relating to dishonesty offences overseas.

An Auckland-based Sunday newspaper yesterday approached the polytechnic with questions about the lecturer.

Northland Polytechnic chief executive Mr Denis Snelgar confirmed that the polytechnic’s policy required prospective staff to disclose any criminal convictions in their job applications.

He said the lecturer named by the newspaper had not advised the polytechnic of the convictions described.

The polytechnic has asked the newspaper to provide any substantiation which will assist the investigation, which is expected to be complete within two weeks.

Until the investigation is complete, Mr Snelgar said the polytechnic will not be making further public comment and the lecturer will continue his work.

“We have no reservations about his qualifications or his ability to teach the programmes for which he is responsible. The role of the polytechnic is now to determine the facts of the case, from which a fair and just conclusion may be drawn.”

Students or parents who had any concerns were welcome to contact the polytechnic, said Mr Snelgar.

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