The audit report confirmed the allegations and also revealed serious compliance violations by the artistic director. Linz Mayor Klaus Luger is of the opinion that Dietmar Kerschbaum’s employment relationship should be terminated with immediate effect. “Not only have most of the rumored allegations been confirmed, but more have been uncovered,” says Luger.
Apparently, the artistic management did not adhere to LIVA’s binding award principles, nor were compliance rules observed. The main allegations were so-called self-dealing with himself and his wife, as well as dealings with companies and associations in which Dietmar Kerschbaum holds functions. Based on the new findings, the Control Office recommends that certain facts be forwarded to the public prosecutor’s office for review.
“Exemption has proven to be the right approach”
“The exemption announced in March has proven to be the right course of action. The allegations that have now come to light are more serious than originally assumed,” said Luger following learning of the results of the special audit.
Image: VOLKER WEIHBOLD
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Image: VOLKER WEIHBOLD
On July 8, the Control Committee will examine the report of the special audit. The result of the parallel intensive compliance audit by KPMG should also be available by the extraordinary meeting of the LIVA Supervisory Board.
Mayor Klaus Luger: “After reviewing the audit office’s report, I am of the opinion that the employment relationship with Mr. Kerschbaum will have to be terminated with immediate effect. Personally, I am disappointed that the trust was abused to such an extent.”