Marryatt wins grievance settlement against council

Tony Marryatt. Photo / Supplied

Christchurch City Council's chief executive Tony Marryatt, who was criticised for accepting a $68,000 pay rise last year, has won a personal grievance settlement against his employers.

Mr Marryatt took ratepayer-funded legal action against city councillors on April 18, just months after thousands of Christchurch residents protested against his pay rise and called for his resignation.

While copping criticism from many Cantabrians, city councillors also voiced opposition to his pay rise at a time when the earthquake-devastated city was nearing crisis point.

Now, it has been revealed today that he launched a legal battle against the city councillors at the Employment Court.

An "agreed statement" for Marryatt and the city council, released this afternoon, confirms the personal grievance was lodged and that it has now been settled before getting to court.

"Tony Marryatt confirming that he is committed to the rebuild of the city and to leading the council organisation," the statement said.

It said the council reaffirmed its backing of the chief executive during "this critical time".

"The council values and respects Tony Marryatt's role as chief executive and recognises and appreciates the work he has put in over this critical time," it said.

The only money paid in settlement by the council to Mr Marryatt was reimbursement of his legal costs "reasonably incurred in pursuing his personal grievance" it said.

"It is acknowledged that extensive time and effort has been put into clarifying councillors' roles.

"The adoption of the Christchurch City Council charter is intended to effect behavioural change and improve the working relationship going forward."

The council refused to comment further, saying it could not because the matter was an "employment issue".

APNZ understands Mr Marryatt may still consider refusing the $68,000 pay rise at an upcoming remuneration review.