Action to ensure acceptable working practices at Marine Scotland is under way following claims by a former worker of being taped to a chair at the agency’s Caithness base.
Scottish Government Permanent Secretary Leslie Evans carried out a review after images of ex-employee DeeAnn Fitzpatrick tied to the chair emerged.
>> Keep up to date with the latest news with The P&J newsletter
The government policy officer said: “Earlier this year I was asked by the First Minister to carry out a full review into the circumstances. I am clear that this was completely unacceptable, whatever the circumstances.
“A comprehensive internal review has now concluded. The Scottish Government has robust disciplinary procedures to address behaviour that falls below expected standards and I am satisfied that these have been followed thoroughly and objectively in relation to this incident.”
She added: “A broad set of actions are underway in Marine Scotland to ensure a working environment which meets both the Civil Service Code and Scottish Government Standards of Behaviour.
“My unwavering commitment to ensuring a positive workplace for all employees in the Scottish Government remains.”
Ms Fitzpatrick raised a series of complaints against the government agency during a two-day employment tribunal in Aberdeen in June, and her lawyer asked that she be awarded up to £42,000 in damages.
The alleged incident where Ms Fitzpatrick was bound to a chair could not be taken into account because it happened too long ago.
The tribunal instead focused on accusations that the 49-year-old received “threatening” cards on her birthday and Valentine’s Day between 2015 and 2017.
Representing Marine Scotland, solicitor Andrew Gibson argued that there was no proof that the letters had been sent by her workmates.
