YVETTE Berry says it has become clear in recent days that the governance and financial issues at Inanna Inc mean the organisation is no longer able to operate.

“This is very sad news for Canberra’s community services sector and for many people who have worked with Inanna – as staff and as clients – over the years,” Yvette said.

“As I announced last week, while the ACT Government has no role in the management of our community service providers, given this unique situation and following the advice of the Government Solicitor’s Office, the decision was taken to appoint a statutory manager to assist with Inanna’s day to day operations.

“The government’s priority remains that services continue to be delivered to Inanna’s clients who are among the most vulnerable in our community. The next step will be the transition of services to other organisations.

“Today I have provided briefing to both the Liberal Party spokesperson, Nicole Lawder MLA and to the Director of the ACT Council of Social Service, Susan Helyar, on details of the government’s response and the actions likely to be taken during the caretaker period.

“It’s important for the staff, clients and broader community in this very difficult situation the response can now proceed with minimal interference.

“I have asked Ms Helyar to advise the Community Services Directorate during the caretaker period given her position as a representative of the sector, and due to the fact that the scope for ministerial decisions will be limited, and I thank her for agreeing to do so.

“The Community Services Directorate will shortly issue an Expression of Interest calling for proposals from community organisations within the ACT Specialist Homelessness Sector to transition clients and programs from Inanna.

“Importantly the Expression of Interest will also call on organisations to put forward proposals about how existing Inanna staff may also transition with the programs and clients, and access new job opportunities within the community sector.

“It is expected that new service providers will be in place by 30 September 2016.

“I would like to acknowledge that Inanna Inc. has been instrumental in providing housing, homelessness, disability and mental health services in Canberra over period of decades, made possible through the contributions of many outstanding individuals.

“I also want to thank the many representatives of Canberra’s community service sector who have offered and provided assistance to what will be a challenging transition process.”