Ordina publishes findings investigation

Nieuwegein, the Netherlands, 27 January 2015

• Extensive investigation completed
• One case with a clear indication of a possible irregularity
• No indications of structural irregularities
• Several cases of inappropriate behaviour by a limited number of people
• Cases relate to the period 2005-2010
• Integrity programme intensified, compliance structure tightened

Ordina today publishes the findings  of the completed investigation into possible irregularities in tender procedures and contracts in the public sector. The findings of the investigation, which was conducted by law firm De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek, describe eight cases. The investigation covered some 1.5 million data items and around 65 interviews. The data items were released using the forensic IT expertise of Fox-IT. The investigation also looked into the corporate culture and client contacts within the Commerce department to date. The investigation uncovered one case with a clear indication of a possible irregularity. In addition, the Management Board believes that there were a few instances of inappropriate behaviour on the part of a limited number of people. There were no indications of structural irregularities, nor evidence of a practice of excessive relationship management, such as expensive gifts or extravagant events. Nor are there any indications of bribery or illegal agreements with competitors.

General findings on the cases
The findings of the investigation describe eight cases, six of which were investigated as a result of questions from the Zembla television programme, as previously outlined in our press release of 9 October 2014. The investigation into the other two cases was initiated as a result of additional signs of possible irregularities which were uncovered in the course of the investigation. The shareholder' circular contains detailed information on the cases.

The Management Board regrets to note that an indication of a possible irregularity has been found in one of the cases, as well as a few instances of inappropriate behaviour on the part of a limited number of people. By inappropriate behaviour, we mean behaviour that is not in line with the corporate values and standards of our company.

One possible irregularity

• The case that involves a clear indication of a possible irregularity concerns a framework agreement with the Public Prosecutors' Office (PPO) from 2009. It appears that, after Ordina was granted the provisional tender, an employee of the client asked Ordina to amend the price on the bid. It seems that the price of the bid was indeed amended and the framework agreement was eventually closed on the basis of that new bid price. We have since contacted the PPO about this case in its capacity as the contracting party.

Other findings