Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said to be ‘seriously ill’, delaying the inquiry into sexual harassment allegations

The inquiry into sexual harassment allegations against Lord Mayor Robert Doyle will take longer than expected as the mayor is said to be suffering “serious ill health”.

In a statement this afternoon, City of Melbourne CEO Ben Rimmer said it was now likely the report would be handed down in two stages.

“We support the Lord Mayor’s focus on his health and we are very hopeful that he makes a full and speedy recovery,” the statement read.

“We are very conscious of the need to support all Councillors and employees during this difficult time.”

Cr Doyle has strongly denied any wrong doing and stood aside as Lord Mayor in December,.

Ian Freckleton QC was called in to investigate. Melbourne councillors were due to discuss the investigation at a committee meeting on Tuesday.