Tainui paying $15,000 to settle sexual harassment case

By JON STOKES

Tainui look set to approve an out-of-court settlement with a female employee who laid a complaint with the tribe's board alleging sexual harassment by chief executive Hemi Rau and assault by co-chairman Tukoroirangi Morgan.

The Herald understands the tribe's board is compelled to pay $15,000 to the woman as part of an agreement reached between her lawyer and co-chairman Haydn Solomon.

It is understood the agreement was reached without board approval.

The complaint, made in May by a policy analyst, sought compensation of $40,000 and a public apology by Mr Morgan for workplace bullying, stress and disadvantage.

In papers lodged by her lawyers, the woman's claims included being "intimidated and fearful" of Mr Rau, who she said called her names and criticised her figure. She said Mr Morgan swore at her and pushed her against a wall.

Mr Rau and Mr Morgan deny the allegations. Mr Morgan said he was frustrated that the matter would not be resolved through the courts.

A board member said that at a meeting on June 14, which Mr Solomon chaired, it was agreed that the tribe's chief financial officer would investigate the claim.

It has since been revealed that Mr Solomon had approved the settlement the week before.

It is understood the board is considering seeking compensation from Mr Solomon if the settlement is paid.

Mr Solomon could not be reached for comment.

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