Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Invercargill Council Boss Returns To Work After Mysterious Absence
Invercargill City Council’s chief executive returned to work on Monday following an unexplained absence lasting almost four weeks.
Michael Day has been on leave since 18 March, but the organisation has remained tight-lipped about why the top official was away from his desk.
A recent Stuff article pointed out he hadn't been at work since a secret meeting was held at the council about a letter it received.
Discussions about the letter also took place behind closed doors 11 days prior, on 7 March.
In response to questions, a council spokesperson said Day was entitled to request leave and have his reasons kept private, the same as any staff member.
The council also refused to comment on the publicly excluded March meetings regarding the letter.
“The meetings involved matters that are protected by the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act, regarding personal privacy, protecting staff and elected members from improper pressure or harassment, and to maintain legal privilege,” a spokesperson said.
A publicly excluded risk and assurance committee meeting held on 24 March included the topic of appointing an investigator, which the Otago Daily Times understands relates to the letter.
At the 18 March meeting, mayor Nobby Clark stepped aside as chair due to having an interest, meaning deputy mayor Tom Campbell filled in his place.
Clark was an apology at the 7 March meeting due to council business.
Both the 7 March and 18 March meetings were attended by independent risk and assurance committee chair Ross Jackson as well as lawyer Mary-Jane Thomas.
Day was appointed to the job of chief executive in February 2023 after previously holding the position of council group manager finance and assurance.
Council community engagement and corporate services manager Trudie Hurst was acting chief executive in his absence.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air
Local Democracy Reporting
Content from the Local Democracy Reporting (LDR) service is published by Scoop as a registered New Zealand Media Outlet LDR Partner.
Gordon Campbell: On Why The US Stands To Lose The Tariff Wars
SPCA: Huge Win With New Dog Tethering Regulations
Community Housing Aotearoa: Ngā Wharerau o Aotearoa Says New Partnership Model Helping Ensure Right To A Decent Home Is Realised
Greenpeace Aotearoa: Babies At Risk Due To Nitrate-Contaminated Drinking Water In Ashburton District
Driving Change Network: Response To Government’s Proposed Driver Licensing Changes
The New Zealand Remembrance Army: Victoria Cross And Hardham Cup Come Together For First Time In Over 100-years
RNZ Online: How The World Reacted To The Demise Of The Treaty Principles Bill
