Claims of harassing women rejected

MELBOURNE Lord Mayor Robert Doyle has vowed to clear his name as he stands down for a month over allegations of sexual harassment and indecent assault.

The move comes after City of Melbourne councillor Tessa Sullivan quit on Friday, citing sexual harassment. City of Melbourne chief executive Ben Rimmer said he heard about the allegations on Friday and had ordered an external investigation to be headed by top lawyer Ian Freckleton QC.

“I was made aware of serious allegations, including sexual harassment, indecent assault and misconduct, against the Lord Mayor, Robert Doyle,” Mr Rimmer said in a statement.

“I have today informed the Lord Mayor that these allegations have been made.

On Saturday the council issued a statement saying Ms Sullivan had resigned “after herself and other women had experienced repeated sexual harassment which had made their workplace intolerable”.

Mr Doyle said he was shocked by the allegations and frustrated he had not been officially informed of the specific details before being contacted by the media.

“This is an incredibly distressing time for me and my family,” he said.

“I find the allegations detailed to me by media outlets thoroughly abhorrent, not only as Lord Mayor but as a father of young women, a husband, a brother and as the head of an office made up entirely of women.” He said his decision to take leave “must not be interpreted as any concession or admission”.

“I welcome the investigation and will co-operate fully to clear my name,” he said.

Mr Doyle, 64, was elected Lord Mayor in November 2008.