Rankin moving on, no appeal

By VERNON SMALL

Former Work and Income chief executive Christine Rankin has decided not to appeal against her Employment Court decision, saying it is time to get on with life.

In a short statement late yesterday, Mrs Rankin said that after consulting her lawyer and family she had decided not to appeal against the failure of her $1.25 million case against the Crown.

Neither would she take legal action for sexual harassment.

"Instead I want to focus on the opportunities that are beginning to present themselves, get on with my life and not dwell in the past."

She wanted Work and Income staff to be able to concentrate on their future without the distraction of further litigation.

"I had a fair hearing that raised many issues around which there will, I imagine, be ongoing reflection. For my part, however, I want to bring this chapter to a close and get on with my life."

Attorney-General Margaret Wilson said the Crown respected Mrs Rankin's decision.

"Like her, the Crown wishes closure for the matter. Both of us will move on."

The question of whether to recover legal costs would be left to the Solicitor-General's office.

Crown costs have been estimated at more than $400,000.