“The parties acknowledge that they have different perspectives on the future direction of Tasman Rugby Union and how best to achieve the Union’s objectives,” the statement read.
Employment dispute between Mitchell, TRU
The settlement ends the employment dispute between Mitchell and TRU after the former’s summary dismissal as CEO in March.
TRU had accused Mitchell of serious misconduct, including an intimidating conversation with a staff member, breaches of confidentiality regarding a potential restructuring, unauthorised extension of fixed-term staff contracts, and unpaid travel costs for his wife.
While the ERA has yet to decide on the serious misconduct allegations, it ordered in July the interim reinstatement of Mitchell after determining that his dismissal was predetermined by the union’s board.
Central to the interim reinstatement ruling was the disclosed internal board communications made before and during the disciplinary process, where Mitchell was described by other board members as a “skant” and “aka 67. Which means he is a nothing.”