Kyley Harris pleads not guilty to assault charge

The former director of communications for Nova Scotia's premier will stand trial next year on a charge of assault.

A lawyer for Kyley Harris entered a not guilty plea on his client's behalf Wednesday in Halifax provincial court.

Harris did not make an appearance and his lawyer declined comment outside court.

Harris was charged following an alleged domestic incident on May 9.

He was initially placed on administrative leave with pay, but later fired from his position.

Premier Stephen McNeil said the termination was necessary because Harris waited four days to tell the government he was facing a charge.

A trial has been set for Jan. 13.