A council has been called on to denounce bullying after the city’s highest ranking public servant scared passengers with an allegedly aggressive outburst at an airport on Tuesday.
The council’s general manager reportedly stood over an ex-councillor and berated him for publicly criticising council’s handling of its relationship with air line.
A health professional has described witnessing a “scary”, “aggressive” and “volatile” incident while waiting for her flight.
"There were actually two incidents - one in the security line prior to screening and one in the lounge; it was scary,” she said.
“I didn't realise it was the council general manager; on the spot I made a complaint to security because I was scared.
“I couldn't believe it was occurring in a public place, let alone an airport, where security is valued above all else.”
The ex-councillor’s calmness took the sting out of the altercation, which could otherwise have become “very dangerous”.
“When I got in the lounge, one of my colleagues said to me 'Oh my god, he's at it again',” she said said.
"he had distanced himself from the general manager, but the general manager was at him again.
"The language and behaviour was inconsistent with what you'd expect from someone in the highest office of local government.
"Council really has to show leadership on this."
It was claimed that the general manager had condemned the ex-councillor for speaking to the media in the past, but never so publicly.
“As I was waiting in line to be security checked, the general manager approached me and called me a germ and a liar,” ex-councillor said.
“Local government is not above scrutiny and accordingly should expect, even demand to be questioned.
“Anecdotal evidence that I have obtained suggests there is a culture of bullying and intimidation at the council.
“I call on the councillors to establish a confidential and independent service so that reports of council bullying can be reported without fear of retribution.”
The Mayor has taken ownership of the scandal, launching an “inquiry into conflicting reports about an incident that occurred at the airport”.
“The [council] does not tolerate bullying or harrassment and has clear policies, procedures and training in place to ensure this does not occur,” the mayor said said.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This report has been edited to protect the
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