Rumours of internal strife within the American Underground Construction Association (AUA) have been circulating in tunnelling circles for some weeks and with the recent posting of a notice on the AUA’s website detailing an “administrative situation” and investigation by law enforcement agencies it seems that, in this case at least, the rumours may prove to have some founding.
AUA directors ordered a special independent review of the association’s books and records at its Minneapolis headquarters after learning about possible administrative deficiencies. The review began in early October and “indicated that a substantial part of [the] AUA’s funds could not be accounted for”.
As the review continues, it has emerged that law enforcement authorities are also investigating and that the AUA directors have appointed a team to assist them in this. The directors have issued an assurance that they have and will continue to take the necessary steps to protect the AUA.
The AUA is the US representative to the International Tunnelling Association (ITA). Harvey Parker, ITA President, told T&TI that the AUA would continue its normal relationship with the ITA. He added that the ITA did not wish to get involved in the internal affairs of its member nations, noting it wished the AUA the best of luck for a quick and full recovery from the present situation.
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld has been appointed as counsel to conduct a review of the Association’s business activity. T&TI was told that when this review is complete, the AUA board would issue a statement. Counsel would not be drawn to comment when T&TI asked for confirmation that all of the former AUA employees no longer work for the AUA.
Thomas Peyton, AUA President reaffirmed to T&TI that the association would remain the US representative to the ITA. He also said that the planned George Fox Conference would take place on 24 January next year and that the AUA was working on the NAT 2006 conference.
