Stein Lier-Hansen's lawyer claims that the board of Norsk Industri was aware of his client's expensive expenditures on hunting and fishing activities, contradicting previous testimonies from board members.
In the ongoing trial surrounding Stein Lier-Hansen, the former director of Norsk Industri, his lawyer Petter Mandt stated in court that the board was fully aware of Lier-Hansen's extravagant expenses, which include significant costs on reindeer hunting and exclusive salmon fishing. This claim marks a pivotal moment in the trial, with Mandt expressing that if board members were unaware of these activities, it was due to a conscious decision to remain uninformed. He is expected to present a final argument to summarize the defense's view on the evidence presented throughout the eight-week trial.
Throughout the trial, three former board chairs have previously testified, and they unanimously denied any knowledge of the association's use of funds for hunting grounds at Hardangervidda or for grouse hunting during Christmas and salmon fishing in Alta. Their testimonies stand in stark contrast to Mandt's assertions, leading to a critical examination of responsibility and oversight within Norsk Industri during Lier-Hansen's tenure from 2006 to 2023.
Lier-Hansen held a significant role in Norway's labor market as he was a key figure in wage negotiations, particularly in frontfagsoppgjøret, which dictates wage development in the country. The trial not only delves into allegations concerning misuse of funds but also raises broader questions about governance and accountability within major employer organizations in Norway.
