Robert Doyle harassment probe delay not unusual, says lawyer

DELAYS into sexual harassment cases such as that of former Melbourne lord mayor Robert Doyle are not unusual, a top lawyer says.

THE stalemate over the investigation into sexual harassment claims against former lord mayor Robert Doyle is quite common in such cases, says a top workplace lawyer.

An interim report on Mr Doyle has been delivered to his lawyers, however they have told the council he is unable to respond to the findings due to ill health.

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Mr Doyle was admitted to hospital last month.

It is understood that he has been suffering from depression and anxiety.

Melbourne City council chief executive Ben Rimmer. Picture: Kris Reichl

City council chief executive Ben Rimmer has indicated that he would like to publicly release the findings of the final report.

But it’s believed the council is expecting legal action from the Doyle side if he does.

Josh Bornstein, national head of employment law at Maurice Blackburn, said the situation was not unusual.

“It’s quite common for workplace investigations to be delayed because of health problems suffered by participants,” he said.

“Workplace investigations are often a mental health disaster zone, it’s very traumatic for those involved.

Robert Doyle was admitted to hospital last month.

“Any organisation, whether it’s the council or otherwise, has a real problem trying to reach some form of resolution.

Mr Bornstein was initially approached to provide advice to former city councillor Tessa Sullivan, who accused Mr Doyle of inappropriate behaviour including touching her breast, which he has denied.

Mr Bornstein said he had not been involved any further in the case.