Justice director general Menzi Simelane was on Tuesday described as a hard working, committed individual.

"I found him to be extremely hard working, very committed, passionate about his work in carrying out instructions in a way that will add value to the ministry," said Justice Minister Enver Surty, speaking at a briefing in Pretoria.

He spoke after it became known that the Ginwala inquiry into prosecutions boss Vusi Pikoli's fitness to hold office found irregularities in Simelane's conduct.

According to the report released to the public on Monday, Simelane's conduct "left much to be desired.

"His testimony was contradictory and without basis in fact and in law."

"I regard these findings as very serious," said Surty, adding that the Public Service Commission would conduct an investigation.

President Kgalema Motlanthe on Monday referred the matter to the department after announcing that Pikoli be relieved of his duties.

Surty said he had already spoken to the chairman of the commission who said he would attend to the matter urgently.

Surty however added that if the Simelane, who was not at the briefing, was found to have committed a violation in the execution of his duties, appropriate measures would be taken.