Council employee dies amid claims of bullying

An Auckland Council employee has died in a suspected suicide amid allegations of harassment and bullying.

Jenny Gargiulo, a principal environment specialist, died on December 1 in Auckland’s Blockhouse Bay, police said.

The coroner is looking into her death, which a spokesman said was suspected to be selfinflicted. A WorkSafe spokeswoman said the organisation had also been notified.

According to her LinkedIn profile, Gargiulo had worked at the council since May 2017 following nearly five years at a healthcare agency. She was responsible for implementing the council’s weed management plan, of which the most controversial aspect was the use of the chemical weedkiller glyphosate.

Stuff understands Gargiulo came under a great deal of pressure from both elected members and members of the public over the issue, which came to a head at a climate change and environment committee meeting on November 12.

Three days after she died, council staff were informed an investigation had been launched into an ‘‘incident’’ within her team, multiple sources have told Stuff. One source said they were

asked not to speculate about the incident and told they would be updated on the investigation by the council’s new chief executive, Jim Stabback.

However, the council’s communications department would not answer Stuff’s questions around any investigation, including its scope or end date.

‘‘This has been an incredibly sad and difficult time for the council wha¯nau following the sudden death of amuch-respected colleague and friend, and we are continuing to support our people as they grieve and come to terms with this loss,’’ a spokeswoman said. ‘‘Out of respect for the family and friends of our colleague, we will not be commenting on the circumstances surrounding this tragedy at this time.’’

A death notice in the New Zealand Herald described Gargiulo as a ‘‘most precious daughter’’ and ‘‘adored sister’’.

Gargiulo’s family has been approached for comment.

Meanwhile, Stabback sent an email to staff, entitled ‘‘Be kind to yourselves and each other’’, yesterday afternoon.