Caerphilly Council’s chief executive, Christina Harrhy, is set to receive a hefty settlement of ‘more than £200,000’ after being absent from her role for almost a year. Harrhy has been away from her position since November 2023, initially due to sickness. Despite being cleared to return to work in January, she remained absent following concerns raised about Labour leader Sean Morgan and a senior officer.
The council has confirmed Harrhy’s departure after a recent “special meeting” to discuss her role. While details of the meeting were not disclosed, it was revealed that a majority of councillors voted in favour of the settlement rather than opting for a formal investigation or arbitration process, which would have incurred higher costs.
In the meantime, Harrhy’s duties have been carried out by her deputy, Dave Street, who has been serving in her absence during council and committee meetings, as well as fulfilling the role of returning officer during May’s police and crime commissioner elections. Street will now act as the interim chief executive while the Council considers the next steps in appointing a permanent replacement for Harrhy.
Caerphilly Council has a pay policy indicating a spot salary of £153,111 for the chief executive role. The decision to provide Harrhy with a settlement exceeding £200,000 comes amid efforts by the council to manage its budget efficiently.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that councillors were instructed not to discuss the matter with the press, with Harrhy notably absent from the meeting where the settlement was approved. The exact reasons for Harrhy’s departure and the circumstances leading to the settlement remain undisclosed by the council.
The council’s decision to offer such a substantial settlement to Harrhy raises questions about the handling of executive matters within local government and the implications for budget management in Caerphilly. The controversy surrounding Harrhy’s exit adds to the challenges faced by the council in maintaining public trust and financial accountability.