HE is a key figure at City of York Council in charge of one of its top departments. He has been suspended from duty.

But today the Evening Press can reveal authority bosses have decided the public cannot know what his fate may be.

As chiefs met behind closed doors to discuss an agreement with commercial services director David Finnegan, the council refused to reveal any details to taxpayers who could have to foot the bill. Leading councillors from both main political parties in York, including council leader Steve Galloway and Labour leader Dave Merrett, met to discuss the terms of a "compromise agreement" with Mr Finnegan.

The council has refused to confirm what that agreement is or what it entails. But Business Link, which has developed a guide for businesses with the Department of Trade and Industry, defines a compromise agreement as "setting out the financial and all other terms on which the employment relationship will end".

Unison chiefs in York also confirmed that compromise agreements were used in situations where an employee's contract was usually terminated.

Generally, the document also sets out arrangements that apply on the termination of employment, such as payment of a severance package and any continuing obligations to an employer. It can also be used to prevent employment tribunals.

In August, the Evening Press revealed details of Mr Finnegan's suspension, which one council source said was linked to "very sensitive disciplinary issues".

Mr Finnegan, who lives in Easingwold, today refused to comment on the matter.

Commercial Services encompasses refuse collection, recycling and Street Scene, as well as building and highway repairs.

At the time of Mr Finnegan's suspension from duty, the Evening Press reported that John Goodyear had become acting director of the commercial services department.

A council spokeswoman today said Mr Finnegan was still in the council's employment.

Updated: 09:49 Wednesday, September 28, 2005