The cash was paid despite a promise made by former chief executive Peter Gilroy in January, 2009, that members of the chief officers group would not accept any bonuses for 2009-10 in recognition of the current financial situation.
His statement followed an announcement in last year’s budget that staff would only receive a one per cent pay rise.
However, Cllr Carter pointed out at Thursday’s full council meeting that the money relates to performance in 2008-09.
“I do admit the Peter Gilroy statement could have been better worded,” he said.
“There was certainly no intention to mislead staff but because it was not explicit it was open to misinterpretation.”
Cllr Carter went on to explain that bonuses for chief officers can only be paid in the financial year that follows that in which they are awarded.
Therefore there will be none paid for 2010-11, nor for 2011-12.
He added: “I hope this finally ends the matter and I apologise to staff who may have felt misled.”
Er no Mr Carter it doesn't.. Whether the staff accept your weasel words or not I don't know. As a taxpayer that is actually footing the bill though I can tell you I'm far from happy. Please explain what these bonuses were for. Was it the amount of taxpayer money saved, or maybe the vast improvement in core services. There again maybe the senior management opted to reduce their enormous salary and pension pots in lieu of performance related pay?
No thought not, just lining your pockets at taxpayers expense as usual
