Report on vice-chancellor delayed

Professor Gerry McKenna is being investigated

A report on the actions of the University of Ulster's vice-chancellor will not now be given to its ruling body on Friday.

Prof Gerry McKenna issued a message to staff late in 2004 asking for understanding over marital problems.

Last month, a preliminary investigation was commissioned to see if there was justification for complaints made about his conduct or capability.

The university said in a statement that the report was not yet completed.

It is understood the complaints are serious. If they are proved, he could face a disciplinary tribunal.

The controversy surrounding Professor McKenna first became public late last year when he issued a message to all staff about his problems.

He said there had been some "misleading and inaccurate" speculation and that his marital problems "did not impact" on his ability to do his job.

Shortly afterwards, the vice-chancellor went on sick leave and is now on paid sabbatical leave.

In January, the university's ruling body, the council, commissioned a preliminary investigation to see if there was any justification for the complaints.

Disclosure policy

The report is being compiled by former UK parliamentary commissioner for complaints, Sir Michael Buckley.

Members of the university council were expected to hear about it at a meeting in its Jordanstown campus, but the report is not yet completed.

BBC Northern Ireland education correspondent Maggie Taggart said: "Sir Michael could say the complaints are unjustified. But if he believes there is cause for concern, the next stage is likely to be a disciplinary tribunal."

Sir Michael was appointed under the terms of the university's public interest disclosure policy.

At present the university is headed by the acting vice-chancellor, Professor Richard Barnett.