In order to address concerns and queries which are regularly
received, on the 6th of April 2022, the Financial
Intelligence Analysis Unit (the 'FIAU') issued a guidance
note to provide further guidance on the role of the Money
Laundering Reporting Officer (the 'MLRO').
Independence and Autonomy
It is of significant importance that the MLRO acts autonomously
when executing the functions linked to this role. Even though, in
line with the Implementing Procedures Part I (the
'IP'), the MLRO is permitted to communicate directly with
the Board of Directors, one still remains accountable for any
decision which is taken during the fulfilment of the MLRO
functions.
No one within the subject person should pressure the MLRO to not
exercise their own discretion. Whilst the MLRO may certainly seek
advice or consult with respect to internal reports it still remains
entirely up to the MLRO whether such report shall be submitted to
the FIAU or otherwise.