Government launched probe into former culture minister over tenure

An investigation file that was signed by current Culture and Tourism Minister Ömer Çelik about his predecessor, Ertu?rul Günay, over his activities during his tenure has been sent to Turkey's parliament for a probe.

The investigation file was opened into the foreign purchases during Günay's tenure, which lasted from August 2007 to January 2013, when four ministries, including the Culture and Tourism Ministry, were subject to a cabinet reshuffle. 

The file builds upon a report prepared by the Committee of Inspection that dates to Sept. 10, 2014, which states that Günay had responsibility over the ministry's foreign purchases during his time in the office. 

Replying to a question about the file being sent to parliament, Günay said he was unaware of the investigation. 

"I would be honored to account for all kinds of work I did during my ministerial tenure and also share these with the public," Günay said. 

Stating that all the departments of the ministry had generated much more income during his tenure when compared with former eras, Günay said they had conducted very productive works. 

The investigation file about Günay will be one of the first files the 25th parliament term will discuss, after the new deputies take an oath at the General Assembly. The file will be read out loud and made available to the deputies, each of whom must then decide whether a parliamentary inquiry is necessary.

For a parliamentary inquiry to the opened into current or former prime ministers and ministers, at least 10 percent of the total number of deputies need to enter a motion. If the motion is accepted following a discussion, an inquiry commission will be established. The commission will prepare a report building on their own...