Listen Live

Leaders of all four political groups issue joint statement

‘We will not tolerate any actions that leave staff feeling threatened, fearful or intimidated, or disrespected’ say council group leaders.

The Council’s cross-party Standards Committee issued a notice of public censure to Councillor Brian Greenslade this week following a formal complaint made against him regarding alleged sexual harassment and abuse of a number of female employees over a number of years.

The joint statement reads:

“We must ensure that our staff enjoy a safe and welcoming environment.

“They work hard to provide vital services for the people of Devon and we firmly believe that they are fully entitled to go about their business in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect.

“We will not tolerate any actions that leave them feeling threatened, fearful or intimidated, or to be treated with disrespect.

“As councillors and political leaders, we have even more of a duty to ensure that our own personal behaviour is exemplary and seen to be exemplary.

“The council has established policies and guidelines on what is, and what is not, acceptable behaviour and robust procedures for ensuring that all complaints are dealt with thoroughly and fairly, and anyone who feels they have been treated inappropriately in any way can feel confident in using this process.

“This serves as a timely reminder that all of us involved in public life must be prepared to uphold the highest standards of behaviour and integrity in our dealings with staff and the communities we serve.”

The statement is signed by Councillor John Hart, Leader of the Conservative group; Cllr Alan Connett, Leader of the Liberal Democrat group; Councillor Rob Hannaford, Leader of the Labour group; and Councillor Frank Biederman, Leader of the Independent group.

More from Local News

Listen Live
On Air Now Radio Exe - Non Stop Playing We Are The People Empire Of The Sun