A special commission of inquiry will be established to investigate the events surrounding the Ruby Princess cruise ship.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian will appoint leading barrister Bret Walker SC as Commissioner for the inquiry, which will report back to the government in three to four months.
“It is important that answers are provided quickly for the people of NSW,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“As I have said before, we will leave no stone unturned until we find out exactly what happened.”
Mr Walker will have the extraordinary powers of a special commissioner to examine all matters involving the cruise ship, including its departure and arrival, and the actions of all agencies and parties involved.
“Discussions with the Police Commissioner and the State Coroner have made clear to me their expected investigation timelines, and I have decided that the quickest path to answers is through a powerful and independent inquiry,” Ms Berejiklian said.
Police and the State Coroner will continue their respective investigations.
The Special Commission of Inquiry into the Ruby Princess will begin promptly. Further updates will be provided shortly.
