Director of Youth on administrative leave since April

Melissa Carmichael

After being sent on administrative leave in late April, Director of Youth Melissa Carmichael has said that to date she has not been given a reason for the decision.

A press release issued by the Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport last Friday stated that on April 26th, 2019, Carmichael was sent on administrative leave following a directive issued by the Public Service Commission as “a legitimate step in an ongoing investigation.”  The statement went on to say that the directive came after “months-long engagement between the Department and Commission.” During that time, the Department said the Director was treated fairly and afforded due process to the fullest extent of the public service rules and regulations. The statement added that evidence and correspondence which were provided led to the Commission’s recommendation that Carmichael to be sent on administrative leave.