Emergency response Commissioner on extended leave as WorkSafe bullying probe continues

VICTORIA’S emergency response Commissioner Craig Lapsley is on extended leave as WorkSafe continues its investigation into allegations of bullying within the agency.

Emergency response Commissioner Craig Lapsley is on extended leave as WorkSafe continues its investigation into allegations of bullying within the agency.

VICTORIA’S emergency response Commissioner Craig Lapsley is on extended leave as WorkSafe continues its investigation into allegations of bullying within the agency.

The Herald Sun can reveal Mr Lapsley unexpectedly extended his recent time off and senior sources have raised doubts about his future.

It comes after multiple people have come forward as part of an ongoing WorkSafe probe, claiming they were victims of intimidation, and bad behaviour was rife throughout the agency.

Department of Justice and regulation spokesman Michael Gleeson declined to comment on the investigation and Mr Lapsley’s leave, claiming confidentiality on staffing matters.

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Sources have alleged the time off is connected to the ongoing probe.

Mr Lapsley could not be contacted for comment and has previously denied the bullying allegations.

However, last year, after a warning from Emergency Services Minister James Merlino to fix the issue, Mr Lapsley publicly apologised to victims, although denied knowledge of individual cases.

“If there has been any harm caused to anyone, I personally say sorry,” Mr Lapsley said at the time.

The Herald Sun first revealed concerns about the agency after uncovering a ­secret $70,0000 settlement to a former employee over a bullying claim.

WorkSafe launched its investigation in December after more than a dozen people came forward to the Herald Sun with claims reporting concerning behaviour.

People said they had been screamed at by management, while others reported they were often verbally abused and belittled in meetings.

Another former employee revealed they attempted to commit suicide and other staff requested to be transferred to other departments.

Opposition emergency spokesman Brad Battin said the reports were concerning.

“Bullying in our emergency services is something that should never be accepted and it is something that needs to be transparent,’’ he said.

Mr Merlino has previously said bullying will not be tolerated but declined to comment further on the matter.

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