Mayor report ‘vindicates’ woman
THE first woman to make a complaint about the behaviour of former Melbourne lord mayor Robert Doyle says she feels vindicated by an inquiry that has upheld four allegations of misconduct against him.
Former City of Melbourne councillor Tessa Sullivan told ABC radio yesterday she was pleased with the outcome of the probe conducted by Ian Freckelton QC for the council.
“It is a huge vindication after 11 weeks of waiting,” she said.
“Four findings of gross misconduct really display the vulgarity and the disgusting actions by Robert Doyle towards us.”
The report backed claims made by Ms Sullivan and Councillor Cathy Oke.
It concluded Mr Doyle grabbed Ms Sullivan’s breast last May when the pair were in a chauffeur-driven car.
Dr Freckleton also found Mr Doyle put his hand on Ms Oke’s thigh several times in 2014, and attempted to kiss her in his office following a meeting in late 2016 or early 2017.
All incidents happened after Mr Doyle had consumed “substantial amounts of red wine”.
Mr Doyle stood down from the high-profile job when the allegations were aired. He continues to strenuously deny the claims.
Findings into allegations made by a third woman have been stood aside to give the exmayor more time to respond.
– AAP