A new whistleblowers’ hotline for those concerned about wrongdoing has been launched today.
Non-profit body Transparency International Ireland (TI) opened its 'Speak Up’ phone line to offer free, confidential information to people facing ethical dilemmas.
It is open to those reporting concerns about wrongdoing in the workplace, waste and fraud in public bodies, or people or organisations that have been the victim of corruption or white collar crime.
The organisation says the service is the first of its kind in western Europe, although other chapters of Transparency International operate such helplines in about 40 countries worldwide.
TI Ireland chief executive John Devitt said the new service would “offer people the opportunity to follow their conscience knowing that there is support and information available when it’s needed”.
“It takes courage and integrity to speak up and report corruption, fraud or the abuse of power. This service will offer people a new source support and a safer way to report.”
Mr Devitt said the organisation would, where necessary, provide a free referral service to lawyers and other professionals who may be in a position to help callers.
The organisation will report concerns to employers or the relevant authorities where both parties agree.
“The statistics gathered by TI Ireland from the service will be published in periodic reports and will help identify systemic problems and in advocating for political or legal reform,” the organisation said.
Mr Devitt said he had been receiving calls from members of the public for a long time seeking support and had planned the service for almost four years, but had never been able to secure the funding for it.
“Given everything that we have learned about fraud, waste and corruption in both public bodies and our banks, it is a shame we weren't in a position to get it off the ground sooner. Maybe people just didn't see the need,” he said.
Pilot funding for the helpline and service is being provided as part of an independent feasibility study by British and German universities of the service and funded by the European Commission.
Core funding for Transparency International Ireland comes from the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust and public donations.
The helpline will be available on freephone 1800 844866, and anonymous or confidential messages may be sent via the website speakup.ie.