By Keri Algar
SYDNEY, NSW: Mark McInnes has said he is looking forward to 2011 after reaching a settlement in the $37 million David Jones sexual harassment lawsuit that was launched against him and the David Jones group by ex-publicist Kristy Fraser-Kirk.
McInnes, who has vehemently denied the allegations since resigning as David Jones CEO in June, today released a statement to the media.
“I welcome today's settlement. It brings to an end a difficult time in many peoples' lives and hopefully it marks the moment that everyone can begin focusing on the future,” he said.
“I have repeatedly said that the vast majority of the allegations are simply untrue and the nature of the court proceedings was an abuse of legal process.
Personally I am looking forward to a new chapter in my family life and a resumption of my career in 2011. I would particularly like to thank my partner Lisa, my family and many friends for all their love and support.
The settlement contains confidentiality obligations so I will not be making any further comment on these matters.”
The conciliation talks began on Friday in the Australian Human Rights Commission, and a David Jones spokesperson has today confirmed the out-of-court settlement for $850,000 comprising "a contribution from David Jones and a smaller contribution from Mark McInnes".