Calls for probe into council boss' exit

Mar 22 2013 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post

Government watchdogs have been asked to probe the pay-off for council boss, David Anderson.

South Ayrshire’s chief executive sparked outrage earlier this month when he walked from his job with a £200,000 package.

Concerns over his performance ended with baffled councillors nodding through an “early retirement” deal.

But the pact has been called into question by one MSP, who says those at the top have cheated taxpayers out of the truth.

And Chic Brodie, SNP for the South of Scotland, has called in the Accounts Commission to investigate Mr Anderson’s deal.

In a letter to the watchdog, he says: “I believe that there are some serious questions that have to be answered as to the handling of this matter, the process under which it has been carried out and the basis of the compensation paid to Mr Anderson.

“I have to applaud the local newspaper, the Ayrshire Post, for revealing various aspects surrounding this situation in its stories as without that there might have been less clarity than there is.

“Not to suggest there is clarity.

“And an alleged “gagging” order on all councillors has not helped clarify the situation.”

Mr Brodie also questions what part a secret dossier on Mr Anderson’s performance played in his retirement.

Mr Brodie adds: “This action has caused some consternation, if not anger, among those who have approached me and I think this can only be allayed by the involvement of the Commission.”