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Local MP Nigel
Waterson is asking the District Auditor to investigate Eastbourne
Borough Council’s pay-off to former finance chief Bruce Bird. In his
letter to the District Auditor, Mr Waterson says that he has heard
from a number of constituents who are concerned about the matter.
“I am asking the District Auditor to carry out a full investigation
into the reported additional pension payment of £105,000 to Mr Bird. I
am concerned that this has been agreed behind closed doors and before
the independent financial investigation into the council's affairs has
even been completed."
"This is all too reminiscent of the large severance packages paid to
chief executives at the DGH in recent years, and needs to be looked
into. This is after all council taxpayers’ money."
"If the recent public comments by the Leader of the council about
inheriting a “financial shambles" are true, then why is Mr Bird
receiving an early retirement package instead of facing a disciplinary
tribunal? Or now that it has come to light that at the end of the
financial year the council had an underspend of £2 million, perhaps it
is politically convenient to pay Mr. Bird off before the tribunal?"
“These are serious questions which need serious answers and that is
why I am raising them with the District Auditor."
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