Leaking of Covid Inquiry findings hindered business operations – Sterling

Former Head of NI Civil Service Criticizes Leaking of Executive Papers During Pandemic

Sir David Sterling, the former head of Northern Ireland’s civil service, has raised concerns about the leaking of papers from within the Executive during the pandemic. Speaking at the UK Covid Inquiry, Sterling highlighted how the leaking of papers had become “increasingly worse and difficult” in recent times, leading to ministers bringing papers to the table “as late as possible.”

Sterling, who was in the role at the start of the pandemic in January 2020, emphasized the challenges this posed to efficient decision-making. He also noted that leaking made ministers reluctant to bring forward sensitive items for fear of them being leaked.

The inquiry also heard from Commissioner for Older People Eddie Lynch, who criticized the decision to discharge residents back into care homes without testing during the pandemic as “reckless.” Lynch highlighted the lack of preparedness in Northern Ireland for the pandemic and stressed the need to examine the consequences of such decisions.

Gerry Murphy of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions echoed concerns about the lack of worker representation during the early stages of the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of involving the voice of workers in decision-making processes.

The inquiry has shed light on the challenges faced by the Executive during the pandemic, with arguments between ministers leading to delays in forming and delivering policy. The minutes of Executive meetings revealed tensions and disagreements among ministers, hindering effective decision-making during a critical time.